flattering crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the crossword clue "flattering," organized by letter count to help you quickly solve your puzzle.
Solutions for "flattering crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
FULSOME: Complimentary or fawning to an excessive degree, often implying insincerity.
9 Letters
ADULATORY: Expressing excessive admiration or praise, often with a view to gaining favor.
LAUDATORY: Expressing praise or commendation; praising.
10 Letters
OBSEQUIOUS: Obedient or attentive to an excessive or servile degree, often implying undue flattery.
13 Letters
COMPLIMENTARY: Expressing a compliment; praising or approving.
More About "flattering crossword clue"
The term "flattering" in crossword puzzles often refers to words describing the act of giving praise or compliments, sometimes with a hidden agenda or an exaggerated degree. Crossword setters love to use synonyms that range from genuinely positive to subtly negative, playing on the nuances of the English language.
When you encounter 'flattering' as a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a straightforward synonym clue, or is the setter hinting at a more complex, perhaps even ironic, meaning? Answers can include adjectives describing a person's demeanor, the nature of a comment, or the effect of something (like a style of clothing).
Understanding these different facets of "flattering" is key to unlocking the correct answer, as it can guide you towards terms that imply genuine appreciation, excessive praise, or even a servile disposition.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like 'flattering', consider if the word implies genuine praise (e.g., COMPLIMENTARY) or insincere, excessive praise (e.g., FULSOME, ADULATORY).
- Check Letter Count: Always use the number of letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to quickly narrow down potential answers.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can help you brainstorm related words that might be the answer. Also, expand your synonym search beyond the most obvious ones.
- Look for Suffixes: Many adjectives end in common suffixes like -ORY, -OUS, -ARY. If you have some letters, these can provide useful hints.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'flattering' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'flattering' often refers to words that describe giving praise, compliments, or admiration, sometimes with an implied sense of insincerity or excessiveness. Common answers include synonyms for praise, adulation, or sycophancy.
Are there different types of 'flattering' answers in crosswords?
Yes, depending on the subtlety of the clue, answers can range from genuinely complimentary terms like 'LAUDATORY' to more excessively or insincerely flattering words like 'ADULATORY' or 'FULSOME', or even 'OBSEQUIOUS' which implies subservient flattery. Always consider the nuance.
How can I distinguish between similar 'flattering' answers?
Context is key. Look at surrounding letters you've already filled in to determine the required length. Also, consider the specific nuances of the clue itself. Is it simply 'praising' or 'excessively praising'? This can help narrow down options like 'COMPLIMENTARY' vs. 'FULSOME'.