neat crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "neat" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "neat crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TIDY: Orderly, clean, and well-arranged.
TRIM: In good order; neat and compact.
CHIC: Stylishly elegant and sophisticated.
5 Letters
CLEAN: Free from dirt or pollution, often implying tidiness.
SMART: Fashionable, well-dressed, and often implying a neat appearance.
6 Letters
DAPPER: Neat and trim in dress or appearance (typically of a man).
7 Letters
ORDERLY: Neatly arranged and organized.
9 Letters
SHIPSHAPE: In good order; neat and tidy, especially of a boat or workplace.
More About "neat crossword clue"
The clue "neat" is a classic in crosswords due to its versatility and multiple interpretations. While its primary meaning revolves around cleanliness and order, it can also refer to something stylish, clever, or even undiluted (as in a drink). This breadth allows setters to use it in various contexts, making it a fun challenge for solvers.
When encountering "neat," it's crucial to consider the letter count provided and any intersecting letters you might already have. Sometimes, the cryptic nature of a crossword clue will hint at one of its less common meanings. For instance, a clue like "Tidy little trick (4)" would almost certainly point to TIDY or TRIM, playing on both meanings.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide you with all possible angles, ensuring you have the answer you need, no matter how obscure the setter's intent. We continuously update our database to give you the most accurate and up-to-date solutions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always compare the number of letters in the answer you're considering with the number specified in the puzzle grid. This is the simplest and most effective filter.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "neat," think of direct synonyms (tidy, trim) but also their opposites or related concepts if the clue implies negation or a twist.
- Look for Homophones and Puns: Many crossword setters love wordplay. "Neat" might sound like something else or be part of a pun. Always be alert for these linguistic tricks.
- Fill in Intersecting Words First: If you're stuck on "neat," try to solve the words that cross it. The letters you uncover will severely limit the possibilities for "neat," making the solution much clearer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'neat' imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'neat' most commonly refers to tidiness, orderliness, or cleanliness. However, it can also imply smartness, style, or a well-executed action (as in 'a neat trick'), so considering the context of other clues is key.
Can 'neat' have multiple meanings in crosswords?
Yes, 'neat' is a versatile word. Beyond its primary meaning of tidy, it can also refer to something clever ('a neat solution'), stylish ('a neat outfit'), or even undiluted (as in 'neat whiskey'). Always consider these secondary meanings if the primary ones don't fit the letter count or context.
How can I distinguish between similar 'neat' answers like TIDY and CLEAN?
While 'TIDY' and 'CLEAN' are often related to 'neat', 'TIDY' focuses more on arrangement and order, whereas 'CLEAN' relates to the absence of dirt. The surrounding letters or a numerical indicator for the answer length in the puzzle can help narrow it down. For example, 'Tidy' is 4 letters, while 'Clean' is 5 letters.