intricate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "intricate crossword clue", designed to help you quickly complete your puzzle. We offer answers across various lengths, along with explanations to clarify their meaning.
Solutions for "intricate crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
KNOTTY: Difficult and complex, often like a tangled problem.
7 Letters
COMPLEX: Consisting of many interconnected parts; not simple.
9 Letters
ELABORATE: Involving many carefully arranged parts or details; intricate and complicated.
BYZANTINE: Excessively complicated or intricate, often in a bureaucratic or political sense.
More About "intricate crossword clue"
The term "intricate" in a crossword clue often guides solvers towards answers that denote complexity, detail, or a convoluted nature. It's a rich word that can refer to physical designs, abstract concepts, or even social structures. When you encounter this clue, think beyond simple synonyms and consider words that capture a sense of finely woven parts or a high degree of sophistication.
Common themes associated with 'intricate' include puzzles themselves, complex machinery, detailed artwork, or elaborate plans. The context provided by other words in the clue (if any) will further refine the specific nuance of intricacy the puzzle setter is looking for. This clue is a great example of how crosswords test not just vocabulary, but also an understanding of word subtleties and connotations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Don't just jump to the first synonym. Consider if "intricate" refers to physical complexity (like a 'maze'), mental complexity (like a 'riddle'), or a process (like 'weaving').
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a few potential answers, see which ones fit the given letter count. This is often the quickest way to narrow down possibilities.
- Look for Wordplay: Sometimes, "intricate" might hint at an anagram or a clever twist in the clue itself. Be open to less literal interpretations common in cryptic crosswords.
- Use a Thesaurus Wisely: A thesaurus can be a powerful tool, but always cross-reference potential answers with other parts of the clue and your existing grid letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'intricate' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'intricate' typically points to words meaning complex, detailed, convoluted, elaborate, or difficult to understand or untangle. It often suggests synonyms that imply a high degree of complexity or fine detail.
How do I find answers for clues like 'intricate'?
Start by brainstorming synonyms for 'intricate'. Consider the number of letters required for the answer. Pay attention to any other words in the clue that might hint at a specific type of intricacy (e.g., 'intricate pattern' vs. 'intricate plot'). Common answers often include 'complex', 'elaborate', 'knotty', or 'byzantine'.
Are there common misinterpretations of 'intricate' clues?
Sometimes, 'intricate' might be misinterpreted as simply 'difficult'. While there's overlap, 'intricate' specifically emphasizes complexity and detail, rather than just difficulty. Another pitfall is overlooking more metaphorical interpretations, like a 'knotty' problem, which implies intricacy through entanglement.