hackneyed crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "hackneyed crossword puzzle clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "hackneyed crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TRITE: Lacking originality or freshness; overused.
CORNY: Mawkishly or unpleasantly sentimental; also, stale from overuse.
BANAL: So lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring.
8 Letters
OVERUSED: Used or done too often; hackneyed.
10 Letters
UNORIGINAL: Not new or interesting; derivative.
13 Letters
PLATITUDINOUS: (Of a remark or statement) used too often to be interesting or thoughtful; unoriginal.
More About "hackneyed crossword puzzle clue"
The term "hackneyed" is a popular choice for crossword setters due to its rich array of synonyms and the commonality of its meaning in everyday language. It describes something that has lost its impact or freshness through overuse, often applied to phrases, ideas, or artistic expressions. In crosswords, clues pointing to "hackneyed" often test a solver's vocabulary for words that convey a sense of staleness or lack of originality.
When you encounter this clue, think of words that mean clichéd, trite, commonplace, or uninspired. The length of the answer will typically narrow down the possibilities significantly. Crossword constructors love this word because it allows for a wide range of answer lengths, from short and punchy (like 'TRITE') to longer, more descriptive words (like 'PLATITUDINOUS').
Understanding the nuances of "hackneyed" can also help you with other related clues. For instance, a clue might refer to the noun form ('hackneyed phrase') or an action of making something hackneyed ('to hackney'). Always consider the part of speech indicated by the clue and the surrounding letters in your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For descriptive clues like "hackneyed," immediately brainstorm synonyms. Words that mean 'old,' 'tired,' or 'unoriginal' are often direct solutions.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most important guide. Once you have a few potential synonyms in mind, see which ones fit the exact letter count required by the puzzle.
- Look for Common Crossword Answers: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords due to their useful letter combinations or common meanings. 'TRITE' and 'BANAL' are classic examples for this type of clue.
- Consider the Vibe: Sometimes, the "vibe" of a clue can guide you. 'Hackneyed' often suggests a slightly negative connotation, which can help eliminate positive-sounding synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hackneyed' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'hackneyed' refers to something that is unoriginal, overused, clichéd, or trite. Clues for this word often seek synonyms or related concepts that convey a sense of staleness or lack of freshness.
Why are synonyms important for solving 'hackneyed' clues?
Crossword setters frequently use synonyms as direct answers for descriptive clues like 'hackneyed'. Understanding common synonyms such as 'trite', 'banal', 'corny', or 'overused' is crucial for quickly identifying the correct solution based on the number of letters.
Can 'hackneyed' have multiple answers in crosswords?
Yes, 'hackneyed' can definitely have multiple valid answers depending on the specific crossword puzzle and the available letter count. This is why our page provides solutions across various word lengths to cover all possibilities for your puzzle.