frank crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here, you'll find all the possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "frank crossword clue". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just curious about word meanings, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "frank crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
HONEST: Candid, truthful, without pretense.
CANDID: Open and sincere in expression, impartial.
5 Letters
BLUNT: Direct and straightforward, often to the point of being impolite or abrupt.
4 Letters
OPEN: Direct, without concealment or reservation.
FREE: To send a letter without charge, typically referring to the act of franking mail.
More About "frank crossword clue"
The word "frank" is a versatile term in the English language, making it a popular choice for crossword setters. Its primary meanings revolve around honesty, openness, and directness. When a clue uses "frank," it often expects an answer that conveys sincerity or an absence of deception, leading to solutions like HONEST or CANDID.
However, "frank" also has a less common, but equally valid, meaning related to the postal service: to mark a letter or parcel to indicate that postage has been paid or is not required. This can sometimes lead to answers like FREE. Crossword constructors love these kinds of clues because they test a solver's breadth of vocabulary and ability to consider multiple interpretations of a single word.
Understanding these different facets of "frank" is key to successfully solving puzzles where this word appears. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to pinpoint the correct meaning in context.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, like "frank," have several dictionary definitions. Always think beyond the most common usage when a clue seems difficult.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. If you have several potential answers, eliminate those that don't fit the length.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes, the clue itself provides a subtle hint. For "frank," words like "opinion," "speech," or "letter" can point you towards the right definition.
- Use Intersecting Words: Don't try to solve a clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are crucial for confirming or rejecting a potential answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'frank' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'frank' commonly refers to being honest, open, or candid. Less frequently, it can relate to the postal meaning of sending mail free of charge, as in 'to frank a letter'.
Why might 'frank' have multiple answers in a crossword?
Words like 'frank' are polysemous, meaning they have multiple definitions. Crossword setters exploit this by using different senses of the word to create varied clues, leading to multiple valid answers depending on the context or the solver's interpretation.
How do I choose the correct 'frank' answer?
To choose the correct answer for 'frank', consider the number of letters required by the grid, and analyze intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. The specific wording of the clue might also hint at a particular meaning (e.g., 'frank opinion' suggests 'blunt' or 'honest', while 'frank a parcel' points to 'free').