informer crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "informer" in your latest crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. We provide explanations to ensure you pick the perfect fit for your grid.
Solutions for "informer crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RAT: A derogatory term for someone who informs on others, often implying betrayal.
4 Letters
NARC: Slang for a narcotics police officer, or more broadly, an informer, especially in drug-related contexts.
FINK: An unpleasant or contemptible person, particularly one who acts as an informer.
5 Letters
GRASS: British slang term for an informer, typically someone who 'grasses up' or reports on others to authority.
6 Letters
SNITCH: A common informal term for someone who informs on another person, often to a parent, teacher, or police.
7 Letters
STOOLIE: A police informer, especially one who is a regular informant for law enforcement agencies.
8 Letters
SQUEALER: Someone who informs on others, often used to describe a person who 'squeals' or confesses about illicit activities to authorities.
More About "informer crossword clue"
The term "informer" in crosswords usually points to synonyms describing someone who provides information to an authority, often secretly or to betray others. These answers frequently carry negative connotations, reflecting the act of 'snitching' or 'ratting out' someone. Understanding the nuance of these terms can be crucial, as some answers like NARC might be more specific to law enforcement contexts, while others like RAT are broadly applicable to any act of informing.
Crossword setters love clues like "informer" because they allow for a wide range of synonyms with varying lengths and origins (e.g., slang vs. more formal terms). This variety tests a solver's vocabulary and their ability to recall different facets of a word's meaning. Always consider the cultural or contextual slant of the crossword (e.g., British vs. American English) as this can influence which synonym is expected.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Intersecting Clues: Always use the letters from intersecting words to confirm your answer. This is the most reliable way to ensure you have the correct solution, especially when multiple words fit the letter count for a clue like "informer."
- Consider Slang and Colloquialisms: "Informer" often leads to answers that are slang terms (e.g., NARC, GRASS, STOOLIE). Be open to these less formal words as valid crossword solutions.
- Think About Context: If the puzzle has a theme (e.g., crime, espionage, animals), this might hint at which specific synonym for "informer" is desired. For example, a crime-themed puzzle might lean towards 'SQUEALER' or 'STOOLIE'.
- Use a Crossword Dictionary: For particularly tricky clues, a specialized crossword dictionary or an online solver can be invaluable. However, try to solve it yourself first to build your vocabulary and problem-solving skills!
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'informer' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'informer' in crosswords include RAT, NARC, FINK, GRASS, SNITCH, and STOOLIE. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and any intersecting clues.
How does the clue 'informer' relate to different puzzle types?
The clue 'informer' is a direct definition. In cryptic crosswords, it might be disguised through wordplay like anagrams ('MINER FOR' could lead to 'INFORMER' if rearranged), homophones, or other linguistic tricks. In standard puzzles, it's a straightforward synonym.
What kind of context clues might help solve 'informer'?
Context clues often come from the number of letters in the answer, or from intersecting words. For 'informer', you might consider if the puzzle has a crime or espionage theme, or if the tone of the clue hints at a derogatory term (e.g., 'traitor's colleague').