long winded crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "long winded crossword puzzle clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's find that elusive word!
Solutions for "long winded crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WORDY: Describes someone or something that uses too many words, often unnecessarily. This is a common and direct answer to the clue.
6 Letters
PROLIX: Characterized by using too many words; extended to great, tedious, or unnecessary length. A more formal synonym for long-winded.
7 Letters
VERBOSE: Using or expressed in more words than are needed. Frequently used to describe speech or writing that is excessively wordy.
9 Letters
GARRULOUS: Excessively talkative, especially on trivial matters. Refers to a person who is long-winded in their speech.
More About "long winded crossword puzzle clue"
"Long-winded" is a descriptive term often used in crosswords to refer to language or speech that is excessively extended, tedious, or uses more words than necessary. When a crossword clue uses this phrase, it's guiding you towards synonyms that describe this characteristic. The answer isn't about the clue itself being long, but rather the concept it's asking you to identify.
Understanding the nuances between synonyms like 'verbose,' 'prolix,' and 'garrulous' can be key. While all imply using many words, 'garrulous' specifically refers to a person who talks a lot, often about unimportant things, whereas 'verbose' and 'prolix' can apply to writing or speech in general. Paying attention to these subtle differences can help you pinpoint the exact word the puzzle setter intends.
Crossword setters often use such descriptive clues to test your vocabulary breadth, especially your knowledge of less common but precise synonyms. Therefore, having a strong lexicon of words related to communication styles and human characteristics is highly beneficial.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Deconstruct the Clue: For long clues, break them down into smaller, manageable parts. Identify the core noun, verb, or adjective, and then look for modifiers. This helps in isolating key concepts.
- Consider Word Length: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter. If you have multiple possible synonyms, the letter count will narrow down the options significantly.
- Think of Context and Nuance: While synonyms are often interchangeable, sometimes a clue hints at a specific context. For 'long-winded,' think if it refers to a person's speaking habit (garrulous) or just text/speech (verbose, prolix).
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, fill in other answers around the long clue. The intersecting letters will provide crucial hints, often revealing the first or last few letters, which are invaluable for identifying the correct word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'long-winded' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'long-winded' typically refers to someone or something that uses too many words, is excessively verbose, or tediously protracted. Common synonyms include WORDY, PROLIX, VERBOSE, and GARRULOUS. The clue itself might also be long-winded, but the answer usually refers to the characteristic of being verbose.
How can I solve long crossword clues more effectively?
To solve long clues, break them down into smaller phrases or keywords. Identify the core subject, verb, and any modifiers. Look for synonyms for each part. Consider the required word length and potential double meanings. Sometimes, long clues provide more context, which can actually make them easier if you know how to dissect them.
Are 'verbose' and 'prolix' interchangeable answers for 'long-winded'?
While 'verbose' and 'prolix' are indeed very similar and often interchangeable in the context of being 'long-winded,' they carry slight nuances. 'Verbose' generally implies using too many words, whereas 'prolix' often suggests not just wordiness but also tediousness or an overly drawn-out quality. In crosswords, either could be correct depending on the available letters.