in first place crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate guide to solving even the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find all possible answers for the clue "in first place crossword clue," complete with explanations to help you understand the context and conquer your puzzle.
Solutions for "in first place crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
TOP: Often used in crosswords to mean leading or at the peak of a position or ranking.
5 Letters
AHEAD: Signifies being in front of others or leading in a competition or sequence.
FIRST: A direct and common synonym for being in the premier or initial position.
7 Letters
LEADING: Describing the act of being in command, at the forefront, or ahead of others.
PREMIER: Denoting the best, most important, or first in rank, quality, or position.
9 Letters
NUMBERONE: A colloquial term meaning the best, paramount, or in the very lead position.
More About "in first place crossword clue"
"In first place" is a classic crossword clue that often points to words indicating superiority, victory, or a starting position. Its interpretation can be literal, referring to a ranking in a race or competition, or more figurative, implying something of primary importance or excellence. Crossword setters love to use such flexible terms, allowing for a variety of answers depending on the available letters and the broader theme of the puzzle.
Understanding the nuances of this clue involves considering synonyms that convey being at the forefront, whether it's 'TOP' for a brief, impactful answer, or 'LEADING' for a more descriptive term. The context of the surrounding clues and the overall crossword grid layout are crucial in pinpointing the exact word the setter has in mind. Always consider how the word fits both semantically and structurally.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most significant hint. Narrow down possibilities based on common synonyms that fit the length, as demonstrated above.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean "first" but also "best," "ahead," or "foremost." Sometimes, knowing what 'first place' isn't (e.g., 'last') can also help eliminate options.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters from crossing words are invaluable. If you have a few letters, they can quickly confirm or rule out potential solutions, making 'in first place' a much easier solve.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: While "in first place" is generally straightforward, some clues might involve a play on words. Keep an open mind for less obvious interpretations, especially in trickier puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "in first place" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "in first place" often refers to being at the top, leading, winning, or being the most prominent. Clues might use synonyms like 'leading', 'ahead', 'top', or 'premier' to indicate this position. It can be literal (e.g., in a race) or figurative (e.g., of highest importance).
Are there common synonyms for "in first place" used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include TOP, AHEAD, FIRST, LEADING, PREMIER, FOREMOST, SUPREME, and even phrases like NUMBER ONE. The specific answer depends on the letter count and intersecting letters in the grid.
How can I improve my speed in solving "first place" related clues?
To improve, familiarize yourself with common synonyms for 'in first place' across various word lengths. Practice recognizing contextual clues (e.g., '___ of the class' for TOP, or '___ in the race' for AHEAD). Developing a strong vocabulary of these terms will help you quickly recall possible answers.