mean crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving even the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find all possible solutions for "mean crossword clue," organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with confidence.
Solutions for "mean crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LOW: Can mean 'mean' in the sense of humble, contemptible, or of poor quality. For example, 'a low trick' implies a mean or dishonest act.
5 Letters
CRUEL: Directly refers to the unkind, harsh, or malicious definition of 'mean'. This is a very common answer when the clue implies a person's character or actions.
6 Letters
INTEND: This answer relates to 'mean' as in 'to signify' or 'to have in mind'. For example, "What do you mean by that?" means "What do you intend to convey?"
STINGY: Another common meaning of 'mean' is unwilling to give or spend, characterized by a lack of generosity. A 'mean' person in this context is miserly or tight-fisted.
7 Letters
AVERAGE: Refers to the mathematical or statistical 'mean', which is the sum of a set of values divided by the number of values. This often appears in clues related to statistics or typical values.
More About "mean crossword clue"
The word "mean" is a fascinating example of polysemy in the English language, possessing multiple distinct definitions that make it a favorite for crossword setters. Its versatility allows for a wide range of interpretations, from character traits like cruelty or stinginess, to intentions or statistical concepts. This rich ambiguity is precisely what makes "mean" such a challenging yet rewarding clue to solve.
When you encounter "mean" in a crossword, the key to success lies in considering all its potential meanings and then matching them against the letter count and any other intersecting words you have already filled in. Is the clue hinting at a disposition, an objective, or a calculation? Each context will steer you towards a different, yet equally valid, solution.
Understanding the various nuances of "mean" not only helps in solving the current puzzle but also sharpens your overall linguistic awareness, which is invaluable for tackling future crosswords. Always be prepared for the unexpected when this word appears!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: For clues like "mean," always run through every possible definition of the word in your head (e.g., cruel, intend, average, humble, stingy).
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters required is often the quickest way to narrow down the potential answers for highly ambiguous clues.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. They will quickly confirm or deny a potential solution for "mean."
- Look for Context Clues: Sometimes the clue itself might contain a subtle hint or a phrase that points towards a specific meaning, such as "arithmetic mean" or "ill-tempered."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "mean" have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word 'mean' is a homograph, meaning it has multiple distinct definitions, such as 'cruel', 'intend', 'average', or 'stingy'. This rich linguistic versatility makes it a popular and challenging clue in crosswords, as solvers must discern the specific intended meaning from context.
How do I determine which meaning of "mean" a crossword clue refers to?
To identify the correct answer for 'mean', consider the number of letters required for the solution. Also, look at any intersecting letters you might already have filled in from other clues. The overall theme of the puzzle or the specific wording used by the clue setter can also provide valuable hints.
Are there common patterns or common answers for "mean" clues?
Yes, common patterns often guide solvers. For instance, if the clue implies cruelty, answers like CRUEL or NASTY might fit. If it's about intention, INTEND is likely. For statistical references, AVERAGE is a common solution. The clue might also provide a direct synonym or a phrase that strongly suggests one particular meaning.