gun crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your definitive guide for solving the "gun crossword clue"! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving prowess.
Solutions for "gun crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
GUN: The most direct and common answer, referring to a portable firearm.
ARM: Often used in the plural 'arms' to mean weapons, including guns.
5 Letters
RIFLE: A common type of long gun, typically designed to be fired from the shoulder.
6 Letters
PISTOL: A type of handgun, a firearm designed to be held and operated with one hand.
CANNON: A large-caliber gun, historically used in warfare and often mounted on a carriage.
7 Letters
FIREARM: A broad term for any portable gun that uses explosive power to propel a projectile.
8 Letters
REVOLVER: A type of handgun with a revolving cylinder containing multiple chambers for ammunition.
More About "gun crossword clue"
The clue "gun" is a frequent visitor in crosswords, often serving as a gateway to a variety of answers depending on the specific type of firearm, its action, or even metaphorical uses. From handguns to heavy artillery, the world of 'guns' offers crossword setters a rich vocabulary to draw from. It's not just about the weapon itself; clues can sometimes refer to the act of "gunning" an engine, or even be part of an idiom like "son of a gun".
Understanding the context is crucial. Is the clue hinting at a modern firearm, an antique piece, or something entirely different that uses 'gun' in a figurative sense? The number of letters provided is your first and most important hint, narrowing down the possibilities significantly. After that, look for subtle cues in the clue's wording that might lead you to a specific type or a less obvious synonym.
Many 'gun' clues also lend themselves to wordplay, especially in cryptic crosswords. You might encounter anagrams of 'gun' or related words, or clues that play on homophones (words that sound alike but have different meanings). By considering all these angles, you can effectively tackle even the trickiest 'gun' related puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Letter Count Carefully: Always start by noting the exact number of letters required. This instantly eliminates many possibilities and focuses your search on answers that fit the grid.
- Consider Synonyms and Sub-categories: For a clue like "gun," think beyond the direct word. Brainstorm types of guns (rifle, pistol, cannon, shotgun), broader terms (firearm, weapon), or even verbs associated with guns (shoot, blast).
- Look for Wordplay Hints: If the clue seems abstract or doesn't immediately point to a literal answer, consider if it's hinting at an anagram, a homophone, or a double meaning. Cryptic crosswords especially love to play with words this way.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you've already filled in some intersecting letters from other clues, use them to narrow down the possible answers for "gun." Sometimes, just one or two known letters can unlock the entire word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does 'gun' appear in crosswords?
The word 'gun' and its related terms are quite common in crosswords due to the variety of types (rifle, pistol, cannon) and metaphorical uses (e.g., 'to gun' an engine, 'son of a gun'). Clues often play on these different meanings or synonyms, making it a versatile word for setters.
Are there common wordplay elements with 'gun' clues?
Yes, 'gun' clues frequently involve wordplay. You might see anagrams, double definitions ('firearm' and 'to shoot'), or even cryptic elements relating to sounds ('bang') or people associated with guns (e.g., 'maverick' for a particular gun brand or 'shootist'). Context is key to deciphering these.
What general strategies help with 'gun' related clues?
When tackling 'gun' clues, consider the word length first. Then, think about synonyms for different types of firearms, verbs associated with using a gun (shoot, blast), or even related concepts like weaponry. Always check if the clue hints at a specific type or a more general term. Also, be aware of homophones or hidden words if it's a cryptic clue.