large church crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "large church" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "large church crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
MINSTER: A title historically given to certain large or important churches, often those associated with a monastery or collegiate foundation.
8 Letters
BASILICA: A specific designation given by the Pope to certain large and historically significant church buildings, often for their architectural grandeur or spiritual importance.
9 Letters
CATHEDRAL: The principal church of a diocese, which contains the cathedra (bishop's throne) and serves as the seat of a bishop. These are almost always large and architecturally imposing structures.
More About "large church crossword clue"
The term "large church" can refer to a variety of impressive religious buildings, each with its own specific meaning and context, which can sometimes make them tricky in crosswords. Beyond just their physical size, clues often hint at their function or historical significance. For instance, a church that is the seat of a bishop is a cathedral, while a basilica might be designated so by papal authority due to its importance, regardless of its episcopal connection. Understanding these nuances can be key to selecting the correct answer.
Crossword setters love clues like "large church" because they allow for multiple valid answers depending on the specific word length or other intersecting clues. Knowing the common terms for such structures, like minster, basilica, and cathedral, is essential for any avid crossword solver. These words represent distinct architectural and ecclesiastical roles, even if they all describe grand places of worship.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always start by matching the number of letters in the clue's answer slot. This is the most crucial filter for multiple-answer clues like "large church."
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes other words in the clue (e.g., "bishop's seat," "papal designation") or intersecting words will point you to the precise answer.
- Consider Common Crossword Tropes: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords due to their common usage and varied letter counts. "Cathedral," "Basilica," and "Minster" are all common in this category.
- Use a Crossword Solver (like ours!): If you're truly stuck, don't hesitate to use a reliable crossword solver. It's a great learning tool and can save you time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a cathedral and a basilica?
A cathedral is specifically the main church of a bishop's diocese, serving as his official seat. A basilica is a designation given by the Pope to certain churches (often large and significant) for their architectural beauty, historical importance, or spiritual significance, regardless of whether it's a bishop's seat. Many cathedrals are also basilicas.
Are all large churches called 'cathedrals'?
No, not all large churches are cathedrals. While cathedrals are typically large, many other significant churches, such as abbeys, basilicas, or simply large parish churches, are not cathedrals unless they serve as the seat of a bishop.
How can I determine the correct 'large church' answer for my crossword?
Consider the number of letters required for the answer, as this is often the most direct hint. Also, look for additional words in the clue or accompanying clues that might narrow down the specific type of large church (e.g., 'bishop's seat' for CATHEDRAL, or 'major church' for BASILICA).