hypocritical crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "hypocritical", designed to help you quickly complete your puzzle. Whether you need a short answer or a longer, more detailed one, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "hypocritical crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PHONY: Acting in a way that is not genuine; a common synonym for someone being hypocritical, especially when their words and actions don't align.
7 Letters
CANTING: Speaking in a pompously moralistic, often insincere or hypocritical, manner.
9 Letters
INSINCERE: Not expressing genuine feelings or beliefs; often used to describe someone who is hypocritical.
DECEPTIVE: Giving an appearance or impression different from the true one; misleading. Often applicable to hypocritical behavior.
11 Letters
DUPLICITOUS: Deceitful; two-faced; describes someone who acts in a hypocritical manner by having a double standard or deceiving others.
13 Letters
SANCTIMONIOUS: Making a show of being morally superior to other people; often a hallmark of hypocrisy.
More About "hypocritical crossword clue"
The word "hypocritical" stems from the Greek word "hypokrites," meaning an actor or a pretender. In modern usage, it describes behavior that contradicts one's stated beliefs or feelings. For crossword setters, this word offers a rich semantic field, allowing for a variety of synonyms that capture different facets of insincerity, deceit, or moral posturing.
When you encounter 'hypocritical' in a crossword, think about words that imply a discrepancy between appearance and reality. Common themes include moral pretense, feigned virtue, or a double standard. The answers can range from straightforward synonyms like "phony" or "insincere" to more nuanced terms like "canting" (which implies a particular type of sanctimonious talk) or "sanctimonious" (focusing on the display of moral superiority).
Understanding these subtle differences can be key to selecting the correct answer when multiple options fit the letter count. Always consider the precise nuance implied by the clue and how it might align with the specific word definitions provided.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the clue to the number of available squares in your grid. This is your primary filter for potential answers.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from crossing words. These are vital for confirming or eliminating possibilities, especially when dealing with synonyms like "hypocritical" that have many valid answers.
- Look for Nuance: Some crossword clues for "hypocritical" might hint at a specific type of hypocrisy (e.g., religious hypocrisy, political hypocrisy). Pay attention to any subtle hints that might point to a more precise synonym like "canting" or "sanctimonious."
- Think of Common Crossword Tropes: Crossword constructors often reuse certain words or types of clues. Familiarize yourself with common synonyms for frequently used concepts like 'hypocritical' to speed up your solving time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hypocritical' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'hypocritical' clues often point to words describing someone who pretends to have virtues, moral or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that they do not actually possess. They might preach one thing but do another, or exhibit a double standard.
Why are there multiple answers for 'hypocritical crossword clue'?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the specific puzzle's letter count, intersecting words, and the setter's intent. 'Hypocritical' has many synonyms (e.g., phony, insincere, sanctimonious), making several words possible solutions for different puzzles.
How can I find the correct 'hypocritical' answer for my specific puzzle?
To find the exact answer, first check the number of letters required for your puzzle. Then, use any already-filled intersecting letters as additional clues. Comparing our list of solutions by letter count and explanation should help you pinpoint the right word that fits both criteria.