obvious crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions for the "obvious crossword clue" to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below you'll find answers of various lengths, along with explanations to ensure you pick the perfect fit.
Solutions for "obvious crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PLAIN: Easily seen or understood; not complicated.
CLEAR: Easy to perceive, understand, or interpret.
7 Letters
EVIDENT: Plain or obvious; clearly seen or understood.
OBVIOUS: Easily perceived or understood; clear, self-evident, or apparent.
8 Letters
APPARENT: Clearly visible or understood; obvious.
More About "obvious crossword clue"
The term "obvious" in a crossword clue often serves as a straightforward indicator, pointing directly to a synonym or a concept that is easy to grasp. Unlike cryptic clues that rely on wordplay, anagrams, or hidden messages, an "obvious" clue typically asks for a direct answer. This can sometimes be a trap for solvers who overthink, assuming every clue has a complex layer. In many cases, the most direct and apparent answer is indeed the correct one.
However, "obvious" can also be subtly used by setters. It might refer to something that is obvious in context, such as a well-known idiom or a phrase where one word is clearly implied. For example, a clue might be "obvious truth" leading to "TRUISM." Always consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have, as these will significantly narrow down the possibilities, whether the clue is truly simple or has a slight twist.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Don't Overthink Simple Clues: When a clue seems "obvious," it often is. Start by listing direct synonyms and checking if they fit the letter count and crossing letters.
- Consider Common Synonyms: For words like "obvious," think of immediate synonyms like plain, clear, evident, apparent, or distinct. These are frequently used in crosswords.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters is your best friend. It immediately eliminates many possibilities, even for seemingly broad clues like "obvious."
- Look for Misdirection: While "obvious" usually means straightforward, sometimes setters use it to lead you astray. Be wary if the most direct answer doesn't fit with other solved clues. Could it be a homophone, a part of a compound word, or an idiom?
- Utilize Crossing Letters: Once you have a few letters from intersecting words, plugging them into your potential "obvious" answers will quickly confirm or deny your hypotheses.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "obvious" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "obvious" often points to a straightforward answer, one that's easily understood or directly stated, without complex wordplay. It suggests a direct synonym or a common phrase.
Are clues like "obvious" always simple?
While "obvious" suggests simplicity, some setters might use it ironically or to mislead. It could refer to something that is obviously part of a longer phrase, or a homophone that sounds obvious. Always consider the word length and crossing letters before settling on the first seemingly obvious answer.
How do I find answers when a clue seems too obvious?
Sometimes the most "obvious" answer is indeed the correct one. Other times, it could be a word that relates to a common phrase like "plain speaking" or "clear as day." Start by listing direct synonyms and then consider if the clue is part of an idiom or if there's any subtle misdirection through wordplay, like a hidden word or an anagram.