furtive crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "furtive" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "furtive crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: Acting in a cunning and secretive manner.
6 Letters
COVERT: Not openly acknowledged or displayed; secret.
SECRET: Kept from knowledge or view; hidden.
8 Letters
STEALTHY: Behaving or done in a cautious and surreptitious manner, so as not to be seen or heard.
11 Letters
CLANDESTINE: Kept secret or done secretly, especially because illicit.
More About "furtive crossword clue"
"Furtive" is a fascinating word often used in crosswords to describe actions or intentions that are done with an air of secrecy, caution, or evasion. It implies a sense of hiddenness, suggesting that something is being done to avoid detection or scrutiny. The variety of synonyms for 'furtive' allows crossword setters to be creative, leading to diverse answers depending on the specific nuance and letter count required.
When you encounter 'furtive' in a crossword, think about words that convey discreetness, a lack of openness, or even an element of sneakiness. Common themes include espionage, hidden motives, or actions performed under wraps. This clue provides an excellent opportunity to expand your vocabulary related to secrecy and hidden behaviors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The length of the answer is your most powerful clue. If you have "furtive" and only 3 letters, 'SLY' is highly probable. If it's 8 letters, 'STEALTHY' becomes a strong contender.
- Consider the Nuance: While all answers mean "furtive," some have slight variations. 'CLANDESTINE' often implies illicit activity, whereas 'STEALTHY' focuses on quiet movement. The rest of the clue might hint at this nuance.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to quickly eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the correct one.
- Think of Common Crossword Synonyms: Over time, you'll notice certain words like 'furtive' have a handful of go-to answers that setters frequently use. Memorizing these can speed up your solving process.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'furtive' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'furtive' typically refers to actions or intentions that are done secretly, stealthily, or in a way that avoids notice. Common synonyms include words like sly, secret, covert, and surreptitious. It often hints at a need for discretion or a hidden motive.
How can I identify 'furtive' clues quickly?
Look for clues that suggest hidden actions, secrecy, or evasion. Words like 'secretly', 'on the sly', 'unseen', 'undercover', 'hidden', or 'slyly' are strong indicators. Also, consider the number of letters if some are already filled in, as that can narrow down possibilities like 'SLY' for 3 letters or 'STEALTHY' for 8.
Are there other common synonyms for 'furtive' in crosswords?
Yes, beyond the answers listed, other common synonyms you might encounter for 'furtive' in crosswords include SHADY, SNEAKY, UNDERHAND, or even ARCANE (if it implies secret knowledge). The specific answer often depends on the exact nuance of the clue and the letter count.