informer or spy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "informer or spy," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "informer or spy crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SPY: An individual engaged in espionage or secret surveillance, often for a government.
4 Letters
MOLE: An undercover agent working within an enemy organization, typically providing information.
NARK: (Slang) An informer, especially one who provides information to the police or authorities.
5 Letters
AGENT: A person who acts on behalf of another, often in a clandestine capacity for intelligence gathering.
7 Letters
STOOLIE: (Slang) An informer, particularly one who betrays associates to the police.
9 Letters
INFORMANT: A person who gives information to another, often in secret, typically to law enforcement or intelligence agencies.
More About "informer or spy crossword clue"
The clue "informer or spy" is a common one in crosswords, often testing a solver's knowledge of synonyms and slang related to clandestine activities. These roles, while distinct in real-world application, often overlap in crossword puzzles, providing various answers depending on the required letter count and context.
An 'informer' usually refers to someone who provides information, often to authorities, about illegal activities or a specific group. A 'spy', on the other hand, is typically involved in espionage, gathering intelligence for a state or organization. Crossword setters cleverly use this dual nature to offer a range of solutions, from official terms like 'AGENT' to more colloquial or even derogatory ones like 'MOLE' or 'NARK'.
When encountering this clue, consider the specific nuances. Is it asking for a general term, or is there an indication of the type of information being shared or the entity receiving it? Paying attention to the word length and any intersecting letters will usually guide you to the precise word needed to complete your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Slang and Colloquialisms: Clues like "informer or spy" often have slang answers (e.g., NARK, RAT, STOOLIE). Be prepared to think beyond formal definitions.
- Check Word Length Carefully: This is paramount. An "informer" might be a 3-letter "SPY" or a 9-letter "INFORMANT." The number of boxes will be your primary guide.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm a difficult answer is to see which letters line up with other, easier clues. If a letter doesn't fit, your answer might be wrong.
- Think of Context: Does the rest of the puzzle have a theme? Is it a particularly tricky puzzle known for obscure words or plays on words? The broader context can sometimes hint at the type of answer expected.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between an informer and a spy in crosswords?
While both involve secrecy, "informer" often implies providing information to authorities, sometimes from within a criminal organization, whereas "spy" implies working for a state to gather intelligence from an enemy. Crossword setters might use either for different word lengths or specific nuances in the clue.
Are slang terms for informers common in crosswords?
Yes, very! Terms like "NARK", "RAT", "GRASS", and "STOOLIE" are frequently seen as answers for 'informer' clues. They add variety to the clues and often have shorter letter counts, which can be useful when filling in tricky grids.
How can I tell which specific type of 'informer or spy' word is needed?
Look for additional context clues within the puzzle. Does the clue mention "undercover," "police," "secret agent," or "double agent"? The letter count is also crucial, as is checking intersecting letters from other clues, which will quickly narrow down the possibilities.