not genuine crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on a puzzle? You've come to the right place! Discover all possible answers for the crossword clue "not genuine", complete with explanations to help you understand the solution and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "not genuine crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FAKE: Not real or authentic; an imitation.
5 Letters
FALSE: Not true or accurate; deceptive.
BOGUS: Not genuine; fake or counterfeit.
PHONY: Not genuine; fraudulent.
8 Letters
SPURIOUS: Not being what it purports to be; false or fake.
More About "not genuine crossword clue"
The clue "not genuine" is a common and versatile prompt in crosswords, often leading to a range of synonyms that describe something as counterfeit, artificial, or simply untrue. Crossword setters frequently use this clue to test solvers' vocabulary around concepts of authenticity and deception. It's a great example of how a simple phrase can have multiple valid answers depending on the available letter count.
Understanding the nuances of words like FAKE, FALSE, BOGUS, and SPURIOUS can significantly aid in solving. While they all convey a lack of genuineness, their specific contexts can vary. For instance, 'fake' might imply an imitation, 'false' a lack of truth, 'bogus' something that is fraudulently represented, and 'spurious' something that lacks true origin or authenticity. Paying attention to other intersecting words in your puzzle can help narrow down the correct option.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the provided answer length to the potential solution. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "not genuine," brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. Sometimes thinking of the opposite (genuine, real, authentic) can also help trigger the correct 'not genuine' word.
- Consider Context: If other words in the puzzle or the puzzle's theme hint at a specific domain (e.g., currency for 'COUNTERFEIT', documents for 'SPURIOUS'), use that context to refine your choice.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Words starting with 'un-', 'in-', 'dis-', or ending with '-ous' can often signify a negative or 'not genuine' meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are "not genuine" clues in crosswords?
Clues indicating something 'not genuine' are quite common in crosswords as they allow for a wide range of synonyms like fake, false, bogus, and more, providing setters with flexibility.
What types of words often mean "not genuine"?
Words signifying 'not genuine' often include synonyms for imitation, falsehood, fraud, or artificiality. Common answers range from short words like 'FAKE' or 'FALSE' to longer ones like 'COUNTERFEIT' or 'INAUTHENTIC'.
Can homophones be related to "not genuine" clues?
Yes, in cryptic crosswords especially, a clue might use a homophone to hint at a word that sounds like a synonym for 'not genuine' but means something else, adding a layer of deception typical of 'not genuine' concepts. For example, 'Faux' might be clued as 'For show, not genuine' hinting at a phonetic sound.