friend crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the "friend" crossword clue? You've come to the right place! We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations to help you conquer your puzzle. Whether you need a short, informal term or a longer, more descriptive word, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "friend crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PAL: A common informal term for a close companion or mate.
4 Letters
MATE: A good friend or companion, often used informally, particularly in British English contexts.
ALLY: Someone who helps or supports you, often in a conflict or shared cause.
CHUM: An informal and friendly term for a close friend.
5 Letters
BUDDY: An informal American English term for a close friend or companion.
AMIGO: The Spanish word for friend, commonly used in crosswords when a foreign term is hinted.
7 Letters
COMRADE: Denotes a companion who shares one's activities, especially as a member of one's group or political party.
9 Letters
COMPANION: Refers to a person with whom one spends a lot of time or with whom one travels; a close friend.
More About "friend crossword clue"
"Friend" is a perennial favorite in crossword puzzles due to its rich tapestry of synonyms and nuanced meanings. From casual acquaintances to lifelong confidantes, the word 'friend' can represent a vast array of relationships, each potentially leading to a different crossword answer. This versatility makes it both a challenging and rewarding clue to solve.
Crossword setters frequently employ subtle linguistic cues to guide solvers towards the correct "friend" answer. For instance, a clue might hint at a specific context, such as a military "friend" (COMRADE), a Spanish-speaking "friend" (AMIGO), or a very close, informal "friend" (CHUM or PAL). Paying attention to these nuances is key to selecting the right word from the many possibilities.
The variety of answers also reflects the different registers of language. While 'PAL' or 'BUDDY' might appear in more light-hearted or colloquial puzzles, 'COMPANION' or 'ALLY' might be found in more formal or themed crosswords. Understanding these distinctions helps solvers not just find an answer, but the best answer for the given clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Tone: Is the clue informal or formal? Words like "chummy" or "old pal" hint at shorter, more casual answers, while more serious clues might require terms like ALLY or COMRADE.
- Check for Context Clues: Look for any additional words in the clue that narrow down the meaning. "Spanish friend" immediately points to AMIGO, for example. Similarly, "friend in arms" suggests ALLY or COMRADE.
- Match Letter Count Carefully: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use that to your advantage. Cross-reference the number of blank spaces with the potential answer lengths provided here. This is often the quickest way to confirm your solution.
- Think Beyond English: Many crosswords include common foreign words for 'friend'. AMIGO (Spanish) and AMI (French) are frequent examples.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for "friend"?
"Friend" is a broad concept with many synonyms, informal terms, and specific types (e.g., ally, companion), leading to a wide range of possible crossword solutions depending on the nuance of the clue. Crossword setters often use these variations to increase the challenge and require more precise thinking from the solver.
How do I know if the answer is informal like "PAL" or more formal like "COMPANION"?
The clue itself often hints at the register. Words or phrases like "chummy," "informal," "casual," or even an ellipsis (...) might suggest shorter, slangier answers. Conversely, clues seeking a more descriptive or formal term might point to longer, more established words like COMPANION or CONFIDANT. Always read the clue carefully for subtle hints about tone and context.
Are foreign words for "friend" common in crosswords?
Yes, foreign words for "friend" are quite common in crosswords, especially well-known ones like AMIGO (Spanish) or AMI (French). If the clue includes a foreign city, country, or specific foreign term (e.g., "Mexican pal"), it's a strong hint that the answer might be in that language. Being familiar with a few common foreign terms can be a real advantage.