onus crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate guide to solving even the trickiest crossword clues. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "onus crossword clue", organized by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "onus crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DUTY: A moral or legal obligation.
LOAD: A burden or a heavy responsibility.
TASK: A piece of work to be done or undertaken.
6 Letters
BURDEN: A difficult or worrying responsibility.
CHARGE: A responsibility for which one is accountable.
10 Letters
OBLIGATION: An act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound.
More About "onus crossword clue"
The word "onus" originates from Latin, meaning "burden" or "load." In English, it carries the sense of a responsibility or obligation, often one that is unwelcome or difficult to bear. This core meaning is precisely what crossword constructors leverage when creating clues around this term.
When "onus" appears in a crossword, you can almost always expect the answer to be a synonym for duty, responsibility, or a challenging task. Common answers like DUTY, BURDEN, and CHARGE frequently appear. Recognizing this direct semantic link is key to solving such clues efficiently.
Beyond its literal meaning, "onus" can sometimes imply a responsibility that falls squarely on one's shoulders, as in "the onus is on you." This nuance can sometimes lead to answers that relate to accountability or specific roles. Always consider the context of the larger puzzle and any intersecting letters you might already have.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If you have an answer like "onus" with limited options, match your known letters with potential solutions.
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: For words like "onus," think of all possible synonyms for "burden," "responsibility," and "duty." Sometimes a less common synonym might be the answer.
- Look for Common Crossword Patterns: Certain words appear more frequently in crosswords. Solutions for "onus" like DUTY or BURDEN are classics, making them good first guesses.
- Use Intersecting Letters: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is using letters from already solved clues. If you have a few letters, they can quickly narrow down the possibilities for "onus."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'onus' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
'Onus' typically refers to a burden, responsibility, or duty. In crosswords, clues containing 'onus' will often lead to synonyms for these concepts, such as DUTY, BURDEN, or CHARGE.
How many letters do typical answers for 'onus' have?
Answers for 'onus' can vary greatly in length, but common solutions often range from 4 letters (e.g., DUTY, LOAD, TASK) to 6 letters (e.g., BURDEN, CHARGE), though longer synonyms like OBLIGATION (10 letters) are also possible depending on the puzzle.
Are there common tricks or synonyms for 'onus' to look out for?
Yes, common synonyms include 'burden', 'duty', 'responsibility', 'charge', and 'obligation'. Sometimes, the clue might hint at the 'weight' or 'responsibility' implied by 'onus' indirectly. Always consider the letter count and intersecting letters you already have filled in your puzzle.