maxims crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "maxims" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "maxims crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
ADAGES: A collection of wise sayings that express a general truth, often passed down through generations. Common in crosswords for 'maxims'.
7 Letters
SAYINGS: General terms for short, popular expressions of wisdom or advice, interchangeable with maxims in many contexts.
DICTUMS: Formal pronouncements or statements, especially by an authoritative person; similar to a maxim or adage.
8 Letters
PRECEPTS: Rules intended to regulate behavior or thought, or general principles. Can be similar to maxims, especially when referring to moral or ethical guidelines.
PROVERBS: Short, well-known sayings that state a general truth or piece of advice; often used synonymously with maxims.
9 Letters
APHORISMS: A concise, pithy statement of a general truth or principle. Often more formal or literary than a general maxim or adage.
More About "maxims crossword clue"
Maxims are a fascinating category in crosswords, often requiring a blend of vocabulary knowledge and an understanding of general wisdom. They are pithy statements that convey a fundamental truth or rule of conduct. Examples range from simple proverbs like "Haste makes waste" to more profound philosophical declarations. When you encounter "maxims" as a clue, the setter is usually looking for a single word that encapsulates this concept, rather than an entire phrase.
The beauty of maxims lies in their timelessness and universality. They cross cultures and generations, offering guidance or commentary on human nature. In crosswords, this translates to a variety of possible answers, from common words like "ADAGES" or "SAYINGS" to more specific or formal terms such as "APHORISMS" or "PRECEPTS." Recognizing the subtle differences between these synonyms can be key to unlocking the correct answer.
Understanding the nuance of each potential answer word is crucial. For instance, while "ADAGES" and "SAYINGS" are broad terms, "APHORISMS" often implies a more intellectual or literary origin, and "PRECEPTS" usually suggests a rule or command. By considering the exact letter count and any crossing letters, you can effectively narrow down the possibilities and confidently complete your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the most critical piece of information for any crossword clue, especially for synonyms like 'maxims'.
- Consider Synonyms and Subcategories: For a clue like 'maxims', think beyond the obvious. Brainstorm synonyms (adage, saying, aphorism, proverb, precept, dictum) and also consider subcategories or related terms that fit the letter count.
- Use Crossing Letters: Leverage any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters will quickly eliminate incorrect answers and guide you towards the precise word needed for "maxims".
- Think About Tone: While subtle, sometimes the tone of a maxim (e.g., philosophical, moral, traditional) can hint at a more specific answer, like 'APHORISMS' vs. 'ADAGES'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are maxims in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, 'maxims' typically refers to short, well-known statements of general truth or rule of conduct. These can be proverbs, adages, aphorisms, or pithy sayings. Clues for maxims often test your knowledge of common phrases or synonyms for these terms.
How do I identify a maxim clue in a crossword?
Maxim clues often use words like 'saying', 'adage', 'proverb', 'wise words', 'old saw', or simply 'maxims'. They usually point to a short, common phrase or a single word that encapsulates a general truth. Consider the letter count provided to narrow down options like ADAGES or APHORISMS.
Are maxim answers always short in crosswords?
While many maxim-related answers like ADAGES (6 letters) or SAYINGS (7 letters) are relatively short, more formal synonyms such as APHORISMS (9 letters) or PROVERBS (8 letters) can be longer. The length is entirely dependent on the specific word the setter has in mind, so always check the number of letters required for the answer.