ominous crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "ominous", ensuring you can complete your puzzle with ease. We break down the answers by letter count, giving you quick and accurate help for every challenge.
Solutions for "ominous crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ILL: Suggesting bad fortune or an impending negative event.
4 Letters
BODE: As in "bode ill," indicating a bad sign for the future.
DIRE: Extremely serious or urgent; warning of disaster.
GRIM: Unpleasant, unsettling, or depressing, often suggesting a harsh reality.
5 Letters
DREAR: Depressing, dismal, or bleak, often with a sense of foreboding.
BLACK: Used metaphorically to describe a negative or threatening outlook, as in a "black cloud."
BLEAK: Lacking hope or encouragement; depressing and without warmth or welcome.
6 Letters
SOMBER: Dark or dull in color or tone; gloomy, often implying seriousness or gravity.
7 Letters
BALEFUL: Threatening harm; menacing, often used for something evil or destructive.
8 Letters
MENACING: Suggesting the presence of danger; threatening, conveying an aura of ill intent.
10 Letters
FOREBODING: A feeling that something bad is going to happen; ominous presentiment.
12 Letters
UNPROPITIOUS: Not giving or indicating a good chance of success; unfavorable conditions.
More About "ominous crossword clue"
"Ominous" is a compelling word in the English language, frequently appearing in crosswords due to its rich meaning and various synonyms. It describes something that gives the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen; threatening. The clue often requires solvers to think about words that convey a sense of dread, foreboding, or an ill omen.
Crossword setters love 'ominous' because it allows for a wide range of answers, from short, common words like 'ILL' or 'DIRE' to longer, more descriptive terms such as 'FOREBODING' or 'UNPROPITIOUS'. The context of the clue and any crossing letters are vital in determining the precise answer needed. Understanding the nuances of related terms can significantly aid in solving.
From a linguistic perspective, 'ominous' is derived from 'omen', referring to a sign or warning of a future event. Its usage often evokes imagery of dark clouds, unsettling silence, or a sense of impending doom, making it a powerful and evocative clue for puzzlers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required. This is your first and best filter for potential answers to 'ominous'.
- Look at Crossing Letters: The letters already filled in from intersecting words are crucial. They often confirm or rule out potential answers for 'ominous'.
- Explore Synonyms and Antonyms: Think broadly about words that mean "ominous" or its opposite. Sometimes a clue can be indirect.
- Context is King: Pay attention to other words in the clue or the theme of the puzzle. 'Ominous' might be used metaphorically or literally, which affects the answer.
- Short vs. Long Answers: Shorter answers for 'ominous' (like ILL, DIRE) are often very direct, while longer ones (like UNPROPITIOUS, FOREBODING) might be more specific or descriptive.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ominous' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'ominous' typically refers to something that suggests a bad or unfortunate future. Answers often relate to words like 'grim', 'dire', 'baleful', or phrases indicating a bad sign or foreboding.
How can I find answers for specific letter counts for 'ominous'?
You can usually find answers by considering synonyms for 'ominous' and then checking which ones fit the required letter count. Websites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk categorize solutions by length to help you quickly narrow down options.
Are there common tricky clues related to 'ominous'?
Tricky clues for 'ominous' might use more obscure synonyms, or they could refer to specific scenarios where something is ominous (e.g., 'A black cat, perhaps' for 'ILL'). Paying attention to the nuance of the clue and surrounding letters is key.