looming crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a crossword puzzle and the clue "looming" has you stumped, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "looming crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NEAR: Close in proximity or time; approaching. This answer fits when the clue implies simple proximity without the negative connotation.
7 Letters
OMINOUS: Giving the worrying impression that something bad is going to happen; threatening. This answer captures the foreboding aspect often associated with "looming."
9 Letters
IMPENDING: About to happen; approaching. One of the most common and direct synonyms for "looming" in the context of an event being about to occur.
11 Letters
THREATENING: Having a hostile or defiant manner; conveying a sense of danger. This answer highlights the more menacing interpretation of something "looming."
More About "looming crossword clue"
"Looming" is a versatile word that can present several interpretations in a crossword puzzle, making it a favorite for setters who enjoy a bit of wordplay. It can refer to something physically appearing large and indistinctly, or something that is about to happen, often with a sense of foreboding. This duality means that answers can range from straightforward synonyms like 'NEAR' to more evocative terms like 'OMINOUS' or 'THREATENING'.
When you encounter 'looming' as a clue, consider the broader context of the puzzle. Is it part of a set of clues related to weather, events, or perhaps emotions? Understanding the puzzle's theme can often guide you to the correct interpretation and, consequently, the right answer. The letter count is always your best friend, narrowing down the possibilities significantly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuances: For words like "looming," think about all its possible meanings – approaching, threatening, appearing large. Each nuance could lead to a different answer.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, the answers to intersecting clues can give you critical letters, helping you to piece together words even when the main clue is challenging.
- Think About Word Length: Always use the provided letter count as your primary filter. It's the most powerful tool for narrowing down potential answers quickly.
- Explore Synonyms & Antonyms: Even if a direct synonym isn't apparent, thinking about words with opposite meanings can sometimes spark an idea for a related term.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'looming' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'looming' often include words like IMPENDING, THREATENING, NEAR, CLOSE, and OMINOUS, depending on the specific nuance of the clue and the number of letters required. Crossword setters may focus on the 'approaching' or 'threatening' aspects of the word.
How can I figure out the letter count for a 'looming' answer?
The letter count for a crossword answer is typically indicated by the puzzle itself, often in parentheses next to the clue. For example, 'Looming (9)' would suggest a nine-letter answer like IMPENDING. Always check the number provided in your specific puzzle.
Does 'looming' always imply something negative?
While 'looming' often carries a negative or foreboding connotation (e.g., a looming disaster), it can also simply mean something is approaching or appearing large and indistinctly, without necessarily implying negativity. For instance, a mountain might 'loom' in the distance. Context is key in crosswords to determine the precise meaning intended.