maxim crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "maxim" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your grid with ease.
Solutions for "maxim crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ADAGE: An old proverb or saying.
MOTTO: A short phrase or sentence expressing a general truth or rule of conduct, often adopted by an organization or individual.
6 Letters
SAYING: A well-known phrase or statement expressing a general truth or piece of advice.
DICTUM: A short statement that expresses a general truth or principle.
7 Letters
PROVERB: A short, popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses some commonplace truth or useful thought.
8 Letters
APHORISM: A pithy observation that contains a general truth.
More About "maxim crossword clue"
The term "maxim" refers to a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. These concise nuggets of wisdom have been an integral part of human communication for centuries, appearing in philosophy, literature, and everyday conversation. In crosswords, clues like "maxim" often point towards words that encapsulate universal truths or guiding principles, making them a recurring theme.
Understanding the nuances between a maxim and its close relatives like proverbs, adages, and aphorisms can significantly boost your crossword-solving skills. While a proverb is typically a widely known, traditional saying, an adage emphasizes its age and wisdom. An aphorism, on the other hand, is a concise observation that contains a general truth, often attributed to a specific author. The beauty of these terms lies in their ability to convey profound meaning in just a few words, a characteristic that makes them perfect fodder for challenging yet solvable crossword clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: For clues like "maxim," think beyond direct definitions. Synonyms like "adage," "proverb," "saying," and "aphorism" are common solutions, so always consider the broader family of words with similar meanings.
- Utilize Letter Count First: The number of letters required for the answer is your most powerful filter. Once you have a few potential words in mind, immediately check if their length matches the grid.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the surrounding clues or letters already filled in can narrow down the options. If you have "A_A_E" for "maxim," ADAGE becomes a very strong candidate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a maxim and an aphorism?
While often used interchangeably, an aphorism is a concise observation that contains a general truth, while a maxim is a rule of conduct or general truth, often used as a guiding principle. All aphorisms can be maxims, but not all maxims are aphorisms.
How can I identify a "maxim" in a crossword clue?
Look for clues that hint at short, wise sayings, proverbs, rules of conduct, or guiding principles. Common synonyms like "adage," "saying," "proverb," or "dictum" are often the direct answers.
Why are short, general truths common crossword answers?
Words representing short truths or rules are concise, often widely known, and have multiple synonyms, making them versatile for different letter counts in crossword grids.