get by devious means crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "get by devious means," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's solve it together!
Solutions for "get by devious means crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CON: To deceive or swindle someone for personal gain.
5 Letters
TRICK: To outwit or deceive using cunning or artifice.
6 Letters
WANGLE: To obtain something by manipulation or clever means.
7 Letters
FINAGLE: To achieve something by dishonest or devious methods.
More About "get by devious means crossword clue"
The clue "get by devious means" is a classic example of a crossword setter's way to hint at actions involving cunning, manipulation, or slight-of-hand. It's not about straightforward acquisition but rather about obtaining something through indirect, often ethically questionable, methods. This type of clue frequently appears in various crossword puzzles, from daily quick crosswords to more complex cryptic ones.
The key to solving such clues lies in identifying synonyms for both "get" (acquire, obtain, secure) and "devious means" (trickery, cunning, artifice, manipulation). Common answers revolve around verbs that encapsulate this blend of acquisition and deceit. The specific context of the puzzle, including any intersecting letters you already have, will help you pinpoint the exact word needed.
Understanding the nuances of these verbs is crucial. While "CON" implies outright swindling, "WANGLE" or "FINAGLE" suggest a more subtle, often less criminal, form of manipulation to achieve one's ends. "TRICK" covers a broader spectrum of deceit. Crossword setters love this variety, providing multiple options that fit the same broad description, making it both challenging and rewarding to solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and focuses your word search.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For a clue like "get by devious means," list all synonyms for "get" and for "devious" or "means." Then, look for verbs that combine these ideas.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. This is the most reliable way to confirm an answer, especially when multiple words fit the initial description.
- Think About Nuance: Some "devious" words are stronger than others. Consider if the puzzle tends towards playful mischief or serious deceit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to approach clues like 'get by devious means'?
When facing clues involving abstract concepts like 'devious means', focus on synonyms of both 'get' and 'devious'. Consider verbs that imply acquisition through cunning or deceit. Also, pay attention to the number of letters required for the answer, which significantly narrows down possibilities.
Are there common synonyms for 'devious means' in crosswords?
Yes, common crossword synonyms for 'devious means' often include terms like 'trickery', 'cunning', 'manipulation', 'stratagem', or 'artifice'. The answer word itself will usually reflect one of these nuances in verb form.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers?
Many crossword clues can have multiple valid answers because of the richness of the English language with its synonyms and varied interpretations. The specific crossword puzzle you're solving (e.g., specific publication, setter's style) determines the intended answer, which is why checking intersecting letters is crucial.