mongrel crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the "mongrel" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, clear explanations, and handy tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Discover the solutions by letter count below.
Solutions for "mongrel crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CUR: An old-fashioned, somewhat derogatory term for a mixed-breed dog, often used in crosswords due to its short length.
4 Letters
MUTT: A very common informal term for a mixed-breed dog, frequently appearing in puzzles.
6 Letters
HYBRID: A general biological term for offspring resulting from the combination of two different species or varieties, applicable to a mongrel.
10 Letters
MIXEDBREED: A direct and descriptive term for an animal of indeterminate breed, often used formally and for longer answers.
More About "mongrel"
The term "mongrel" has been used for centuries to describe an animal, especially a dog, of mixed breed. Unlike purebreds, mongrels do not belong to a recognized breed and possess a mix of characteristics from various ancestral breeds. In crosswords, this clue is a classic, often leading to short, common answers like MUTT or CUR, but can also extend to more scientific terms like HYBRID or descriptive phrases such as MIXEDBREED.
Crossword setters love "mongrel" because of the variety of concise synonyms available, making it versatile for different letter counts. Understanding these common synonyms and their nuances is key to quickly solving puzzles that feature this clue. Whether you encounter it in a quick daily puzzle or a more complex cryptic crossword, the answers usually revolve around the concept of mixed heritage in canines.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter when considering potential solutions like CUR (3 letters) vs. MUTT (4 letters) vs. HYBRID (6 letters).
- Consider Common Synonyms: For a clue like "mongrel," popular short synonyms are often preferred by setters. Familiarize yourself with words like MUTT, CUR, and even CROSS.
- Look for Broader Meanings: While primarily about dogs, "mongrel" can sometimes imply a mix of anything. If the letter count doesn't fit a dog term, consider broader words like HYBRID or MIX.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters filled in from crossing words, use them to confirm or eliminate possible answers. For example, if you have '_U_T', MUTT becomes a very strong candidate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'mongrel' typically refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'mongrel' almost always refers to a mixed-breed dog. The clues will often lead to answers like MUTT, CUR, or HYBRID, depending on the letter count and other cross-references.
Are there common synonyms for 'mongrel' used as crossword answers?
Yes, common synonyms include MUTT, which is very frequent, CUR (an older, sometimes derogatory term), and sometimes HYBRID or CROSS if the clue implies a broader biological mix. MIXEDBREED is also a possibility for longer answers.
How can I identify the correct answer for a 'mongrel' clue if I have multiple options?
To identify the correct answer, first check the number of letters required for the solution. Then, use any already filled-in letters from intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities. Consider the specific nuance of the clue – sometimes a clue might hint at a more informal (like MUTT) or more formal (like MIXEDBREED) synonym.