gull crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "gull crossword clue", complete with explanations to help you understand the context and improve your solving skills.
Solutions for "gull crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FOOL: To trick or deceive someone, making them appear foolish, aligning with one of the secondary meanings of 'gull'.
5 Letters
CHEAT: To act dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage, which is a direct synonym for 'gull' in the sense of to deceive.
DUPES: The plural form of 'dupe', meaning to deceive or trick. Often used when referring to people who have been easily fooled.
7 Letters
SEABIRD: A general term for any bird adapted to living on the sea, such as a gull, which is the most common interpretation of 'gull' as an animal.
More About "gull crossword clue"
The word "gull" is a classic example of a crossword clue that leverages multiple meanings of a single word. Its most common interpretation refers to the familiar seabird, often seen scavenging along coastlines. However, to the seasoned crossword solver, "gull" also immediately brings to mind its less common but equally valid meaning: to deceive, trick, or fool someone. This dual nature makes it a particularly interesting and sometimes challenging clue.
When "gull" appears in a crossword, you must consider both possibilities. The context of surrounding words, the number of letters in the answer, and even the theme of the puzzle can help you determine whether the clue points to an avian creature or an act of trickery. For instance, if the answer requires a five-letter word, you're likely looking at a synonym for deceive, such as CHEAT or DUPE, rather than a description of the bird itself.
Understanding these linguistic nuances is key to mastering crosswords. "Gull" serves as a reminder that a simple word can hide complex answers, requiring solvers to think broadly about vocabulary and etymology. Always be prepared to consider both the literal and figurative meanings of a clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, like "gull," have several definitions. Always think about all possible interpretations of a clue, especially if a direct synonym isn't immediately apparent.
- Count the Letters: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "gull," knowing if it's 4, 5, or 7 letters will significantly narrow down the possibilities between bird-related terms and words related to deception.
- Look for Context: Examine the surrounding clues and any letters you've already filled in. Do they suggest an animal theme, or a theme of cunning and trickery?
- Think About Part of Speech: Is the clue "gull" implying a noun (the bird, a dupe) or a verb (to deceive)? This can also guide your answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two main meanings of "gull" in crosswords?
The word "gull" commonly has two main meanings in crosswords: either referring to the seabird (e.g., SEABIRD, TERN) or, less commonly but tricky, meaning to deceive or trick someone (e.g., CHEAT, FOOL, DUPE).
How can the length of the answer help solve "gull" clues?
The length of the answer is crucial. If the answer is 7 letters, it could be SEABIRD or DECEIVE. If it's 4 or 5 letters, FOOL, CHEAT, or DUPE are strong candidates, guiding you towards the 'deceive' meaning. Always check the number of letters required.
Are there other common bird-related clues in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords frequently feature bird clues. Common answers include OWL, EAGLE, ROBIN, SWAN, or more general terms like AVIAN or FOWL. Context clues and letter count are essential for distinguishing between them.