incidental crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "incidental" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "incidental crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
MINOR: Referring to something of lesser importance or scope, often occurring as a side effect.
6 Letters
CASUAL: Happening by chance; not planned or regular, fitting the 'incidental' meaning.
9 Letters
SECONDARY: Less important or effective than something else; often a side aspect.
10 Letters
ACCIDENTAL: Occurring by chance, without intention or planning, directly aligning with 'incidental'.
COLLATERAL: Additional but subordinate; related but not central, often used for incidental damages or benefits.
More About "incidental crossword clue"
The term "incidental" in a crossword puzzle typically points towards something that is not primary, essential, or planned. It often describes something that occurs as a side effect, by chance, or as a secondary consideration. Crossword setters love to use such words because they have multiple synonyms, allowing for varied clueing based on the required letter count and the specific nuance they want to evoke.
When you encounter 'incidental' in a clue, think about its various contexts: an incidental expense (minor, secondary), an incidental meeting (casual, accidental), or incidental music (background, not primary). Each context can lead to a different correct answer, making it crucial to consider the surrounding clues or any given letters in the grid.
Understanding the subtle differences between synonyms like 'minor', 'casual', and 'accidental' is key to solving these types of clues. Crosswords often test your vocabulary's depth, and 'incidental' is a perfect example of a word with rich semantic layers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by noting the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down your options, even for a word like 'incidental' with many synonyms.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Think of all possible words that mean "incidental." Don't stop at the first one; list as many as you can, then filter by length.
- Context is King: If other letters are already filled in, use them. They can eliminate many possibilities and guide you to the specific synonym the setter intended. The overall theme of the puzzle or the other clues might also provide hints.
- Check for Homonyms/Puns: While 'incidental' is straightforward, some clues might play on words. Always be aware of potential wordplay, although it's less common for direct synonym clues like this one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'incidental' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'incidental' typically refers to something minor, secondary, accidental, or occurring as a side effect. It often suggests a clue requires a synonym for something not central or primary.
How can I find the correct length for an 'incidental' answer?
Check the number of blanks in your crossword grid. This directly tells you the required letter count for the answer. Then, look for synonyms of 'incidental' that match that specific length.
Are there common synonyms for 'incidental' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include MINOR, CASUAL, ACCIDENTAL, SECONDARY, and COLLATERAL. The specific answer will depend on the clue's nuance and the required letter count.