obsequious crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "obsequious crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
FAWNING: Displaying exaggerated flattery or affection; trying to win favor by servile flattery.
SERVILE: Having or showing an excessive willingness to serve or please others.
8 Letters
TOADYING: Acting in an obsequious way, typically by flattering someone in authority.
11 Letters
SUBSERVIENT: Prepared to obey others unquestioningly; less important; subordinate.
11 Letters
SYCOPHANTIC: Behaving or done in an obsequious way in order to gain advantage.
More About "obsequious crossword clue"
The word "obsequious" describes someone who is excessively eager to please or obey, often in a fawning or groveling manner, usually to gain favor or advantage. It comes from the Latin "obsequium," meaning "compliance," and is a rich source of synonyms for crossword setters. Clues involving "obsequious" often challenge solvers to think of words that convey similar sentiments of excessive deference, flattery, or servility.
Understanding the nuances of "obsequious" is key to solving these types of clues. While 'polite' or 'respectful' suggest positive social graces, 'obsequious' carries a negative connotation, implying a lack of genuine sincerity or self-respect. Crossword puzzles exploit this distinction, requiring solvers to differentiate between mere courtesy and outright fawning. This makes it a great clue for testing a solver's vocabulary depth.
When you encounter 'obsequious' in a puzzle, think about words that describe behavior driven by a desire to gain approval rather than genuine respect. This could be actions like boot-licking, brown-nosing, or simply being overly compliant. The context of the puzzle, and any crossing letters, will help narrow down the precise synonym needed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For descriptive clues like "obsequious," immediately brainstorm synonyms (FAWNING, SERVILE) and sometimes even antonyms if the clue uses a negation.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match your potential answers to the given number of letters. This is the single most important filter for crossword solutions.
- Consider Nuance: Words often have subtle differences in meaning. "Obsequious" isn't just polite; it's *overly* polite, almost subservient. Pay attention to these subtleties in the clue.
- Use Crossing Letters: If you have one or two letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to validate or eliminate potential answers. They are your most reliable guide.
- Break Down Complex Clues: For longer, more complex clues, try to identify the core definition and any modifiers that might indicate a specific type of word or a common crossword trope.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'obsequious' mean in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, 'obsequious' typically refers to someone who is excessively obedient or attentive to an extreme degree, often for personal gain. It's a word that calls for synonyms related to fawning, servility, or flattery. Common answers will reflect traits like being overly eager to please or showing a fawning devotion.
Are there common letter patterns for 'obsequious' answers?
Answers for 'obsequious' can vary widely in length, but frequently encountered patterns might include words ending in -ING (like FAWNING, TOADYING) or -ILE (like SERVILE). Longer answers often incorporate prefixes or suffixes that denote excessive behavior, such as SYCOPHANTIC or SUBSERVIENT.
How can I find the best answer for an 'obsequious' clue?
To find the best answer, first check the number of letters required. Then, consider common synonyms for 'obsequious' that fit that length. Pay attention to any additional words in the clue that might indicate a specific nuance, such as 'showing' (adjective) or 'acting' (verb). Using a thesaurus or a crossword solver that categorizes by definition can be very helpful.