not straight crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "not straight," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "not straight crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BENT: Describes something physically curved or flexed, not following a linear path.
WAVY: Refers to something having a series of curves or undulations, like hair or lines.
6 Letters
CURVED: Indicates a continuous bend or curve, deviating from straightness.
SKEWED: Describes something set at an angle or positioned inaccurately, not straight or aligned.
ASKANT: Not straight or level, especially looking sideways or with suspicion.
7 Letters
CROOKED: Means not straight or level; often implies a physical distortion or moral deviation.
TWISTED: Formed into a spiral or coil; not straight, often implying a complex or distorted shape.
SLANTED: Leaning at an angle; not straight or horizontal.
DEVIANT: Deviating from what is standard, normal, or expected; can imply not straight in a figurative sense.
More About "not straight crossword clue"
"Not straight" is a versatile crossword clue that can refer to a variety of physical or even metaphorical states. Physically, it often points to objects that are curved, bent, or distorted, such as a "bent pipe" or "wavy hair." These answers typically describe a departure from a linear form.
Beyond the literal, "not straight" can also delve into the abstract. For instance, it might describe something morally "crooked" or a situation that is "skewed" from the norm. When encountering this clue, consider the context of the puzzle – is it a themed puzzle on shapes, or perhaps one exploring human character traits? The length of the required answer is often the best indicator of which specific term is being sought, but understanding these nuances will significantly improve your chances of success.
Always cross-reference with surrounding clues if unsure. A correct answer for "not straight" will often unlock several adjacent words, confirming your solution and helping you progress further in your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Count: The number of letters is your most valuable hint. If "not straight" has a 4-letter answer, think BENT or WAVY first. For 7 letters, CROOKED or SLANTED become strong contenders.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the opposite of straight (curved, angled, crooked) or synonyms for those non-straight words. Sometimes, a clue uses a word that's a near-synonym to the answer.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Crosswords are interconnected. If you've filled in a few letters from crossing words, use those as guides. They often reveal the exact word length and even some letters, making the "not straight" clue much easier to solve.
- Think Figuratively and Literally: As explored above, "not straight" can be physical or abstract. If literal answers don't fit, consider metaphorical ones like "crooked" for dishonest.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'not straight' in crosswords?
Common answers for 'not straight' in crosswords include BENT, CURVED, CROOKED, and WAVY, all describing a deviation from a straight line. The context of the clue, such as length or accompanying words, helps narrow down the best fit.
How can I identify if a clue implies physical or metaphorical 'not straightness'?
Context is crucial. Clues with words like 'morally,' 'dishonest,' or 'unethical' often hint at metaphorical meanings (e.g., CROOKED, DEVIANT). Conversely, terms like 'path,' 'line,' 'road,' or 'hair' usually suggest a physical attribute (e.g., BENT, CURVED, WAVY, SKEWED). Pay attention to surrounding words and the puzzle's theme.
Are there different types of 'not straight' clues I should be aware of?
Yes, 'not straight' can refer to several types of deviation. These include physical bends (BENT, CURVED, WAVY), misalignments or angles (SKEWED, SLANTED, ASKANT), and even metaphorical dishonesty or corruption (CROOKED, DEVIANT). Understanding these nuances can help you select the precise answer needed for your crossword.