lacked crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "lacked," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their length, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "lacked crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
NEEDED: Past tense of 'need', indicating a requirement that was not met.
WANTED: Past tense of 'want', referring to something desired but not possessed.
MISSED: Past tense of 'miss', implying an absence or failure to obtain.
7 Letters
SHORTED: Informal past tense of 'short', meaning to lack or be undersupplied.
8 Letters
DEPRIVED: Past participle of 'deprive', used to describe a state of being without something essential.
11 Letters
WENTWITHOUT: A phrase meaning to manage without something or to do without a necessity.
More About "lacked crossword clue"
The clue "lacked" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of synonyms for absence or deficiency. It directly refers to the past tense of 'to lack,' meaning to be without something, to not have enough of it, or to be deficient in it. This seemingly simple word can lead to a wide range of answers depending on the specific nuance the crossword setter is aiming for, from basic needs to abstract qualities.
When encountering "lacked," solvers should consider not only direct synonyms like 'needed' or 'wanted' but also phrases or words that describe a state of absence, such as 'shorted' or 'went without.' The beauty of such a clue lies in its versatility; it can apply to tangible items, intangible qualities like courage or patience, or even the absence of a person or event. Paying close attention to the number of letters and any intersecting words will be key to unlocking the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Tense and Part of Speech: Since "lacked" is a past tense verb, your answer will almost certainly be a past tense verb or a past participle functioning as such. This significantly narrows down the possibilities.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While common synonyms like 'needed' or 'missed' are frequent answers, also consider less direct terms or phrases that convey the meaning of absence or deficiency, like 'shorted' or 'deprived.'
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: The most crucial tip for any crossword. If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to quickly eliminate incorrect possibilities and confirm potential answers for "lacked."
- Check for Specific Context: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the theme of the puzzle might subtly hint at a more specific type of 'lacking' (e.g., 'lacked a limb' for AMPUTATED, or 'lacked skill' for INEPT).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find crossword answers for 'lacked' when I'm stuck?
When stuck on 'lacked', consider synonyms for 'didn't have', 'was without', or 'needed'. Think about the specific context of the puzzle, other intersecting letters, and the required word length. Common answers include 'NEEDED', 'WANTED', or 'MISSED'.
What's the difference between 'lacked' and 'missed' in crossword clues?
While both imply absence, 'lacked' strictly means 'did not have' or 'was deficient in'. 'Missed' can mean 'failed to obtain' (similar to lack) or 'felt the absence of' (e.g., 'missed a friend'). In crosswords, context usually clarifies which nuance is intended, but 'lacked' is more direct about simple non-possession.
Can 'lacked' refer to skills or qualities, not just physical items?
Yes, absolutely! 'Lacked' can be used for abstract concepts. For example, one might 'lack patience', 'lack experience', or 'lack courage'. Crossword setters often use this versatility to create more challenging clues, moving beyond tangible objects to describe deficiencies in character, knowledge, or ability.