military formation crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "military formation crossword," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by length, along with brief explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "military formation crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LINE: A simple, single-file or side-by-side arrangement of troops or vehicles.
5 Letters
SQUAD: A small military unit, typically led by a corporal or sergeant, usually 8-12 soldiers.
TROOP: A group of soldiers, often a cavalry unit or a subdivision of a squadron, or a generic term for military personnel.
WEDGE: A V-shaped formation used for breaking through enemy lines or for ceremonial purposes.
6 Letters
COLUMN: A formation where troops or vehicles are arranged one behind the other.
7 Letters
PLATOON: A military unit usually composed of two or more squads or sections, commanded by a lieutenant.
PHALANX: A formidable ancient Greek or Macedonian military formation of heavily armed infantry soldiers in close ranks.
COMPANY: A military unit consisting of three or four platoons, commanded by a captain.
8 Letters
REGIMENT: A permanent military unit typically commanded by a colonel and composed of two or more battalions.
9 Letters
BATTALION: A large military unit typically composed of 300 to 1,000 soldiers, commanded by a lieutenant colonel.
More About "military formation crossword"
The term "military formation" in crosswords can be a broad clue, encompassing various aspects of armed forces organization. It might refer to the way troops are arranged on a battlefield, such as a LINE or COLUMN, optimized for specific tactical advantages like attack, defense, or movement. These formations have evolved significantly throughout history, from ancient phalanxes to modern dispersed units, reflecting changes in weaponry and strategy.
Alternatively, "military formation" can also refer to a specific unit of military personnel. This could range from small tactical groups like a SQUAD or PLATOON, up to larger organizational structures such as a COMPANY, BATTALION, or REGIMENT. The context of the crossword clue, including the number of letters and any additional descriptive words, is key to identifying which type of formation the puzzle setter intends.
Understanding the common terms for both tactical arrangements and unit sizes will significantly boost your chances of solving these types of clues. Many of these terms have also entered common vernacular, making them accessible even if you're not a military history expert.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial filter for "military formation" clues, as many different formations exist across varying lengths.
- Consider Historical Context: Some "military formation" clues might lean towards ancient or specific historical periods (e.g., PHALANX for Greek formations). Think about the era if other clues in the puzzle suggest it.
- Think Beyond Battle Formations: Remember that "formation" can also refer to a unit's size (e.g., SQUAD, PLATOON). Don't limit your thinking only to how troops are aligned on a field.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're stuck, try filling in intersecting words first. Often, just one or two letters from an intersecting clue can immediately reveal the correct military formation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common military formation terms in crosswords?
Common military formation terms often found in crosswords include LINE, SQUAD, COLUMN, PLATOON, BATTALION, REGIMENT, and PHALANX. These terms can refer to both the arrangement of troops or the size of a specific military unit.
How do I determine the length of a military formation answer?
The length of the answer is crucial. Look at the number of blank spaces provided in the crossword grid, or for numerical hints within the clue itself, such as '(7 letters)' or '(5)'. Contextual clues about scale ('small unit' vs 'large unit') can also narrow down possibilities.
Are there different types of military formations commonly clued?
Yes, crosswords often clue formations that describe the physical arrangement of troops (e.g., COLUMN, LINE, WEDGE) as well as those that denote specific unit sizes or types (e.g., SQUAD, TROOP, COMPANY, BATTALION, REGIMENT). Paying attention to the nuance of the clue can help differentiate.