paramour crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "paramour crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible solutions, neatly organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "paramour crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
LOVER: A person's partner in a romantic or sexual relationship, often implying one outside marriage or a long-term committed relationship. This is a very common and direct synonym for paramour in crosswords.
7 Letters
ADMIRER: Someone who regards someone or something with respect and approval, often with romantic feelings. While not always carrying the illicit connotation of 'paramour', it can fit depending on the clue's nuance.
10 Letters
SWEETHEART: A person's boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse, often used affectionately. This can be a broader term that sometimes encompasses the meaning of a paramour in a less scandalous context, or in puzzles that lean towards more general romantic terms.
More About "paramour crossword clue"
The term 'paramour' in crosswords often points towards answers related to romantic partners, especially those in relationships considered illicit or secret. It derives from the Old French 'par amour', meaning 'by love' or 'for love'. While historically it could refer to any beloved, its modern usage frequently carries a connotation of an extramarital affair or a secret lover.
Crossword setters love 'paramour' because of its slightly archaic feel and its capacity to lead to various synonyms depending on the desired word length. Answers like LOVER are straightforward, but more nuanced options like ADMIRER or SWEETHEART might appear in trickier puzzles where the setter is playing with the broader semantic field of romantic attachment rather than just the illicit aspect.
When you encounter 'paramour' as a clue, think broadly about terms for lovers, significant others, and even those who show strong affection. Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting clues to narrow down the possibilities effectively. Its rich history and varied interpretations make it a fascinating and frequently appearing clue in many puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters you need for the answer. This immediately eliminates many possibilities for 'paramour' and other clues.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. Even one or two confirmed letters can often reveal the entire answer, especially for common words like those related to 'paramour'.
- Consider Nuance: Some clues like 'paramour' can have slightly different shades of meaning. Think if the puzzle leans towards a scandalous interpretation (e.g., LOVER) or a more general romantic one (e.g., SWEETHEART).
- Think about Common Crossword Synonyms: Over time, you'll notice certain words appear repeatedly as answers for similar clues. 'Lover' is a classic for 'paramour'. Building a mental library of these common pairings helps immensely.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'paramour' typically refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'paramour' most often refers to a lover, especially one involved in an illicit or secretive romantic relationship. Common answers include LOVER, ADMIRER, or SWEETHEART, depending on the letter count and surrounding clues.
Are there common alternative clues for answers to 'paramour'?
Yes, answers like LOVER or ADMIRER can also be clued by terms such as 'beau', 'suitor', 'affair participant', or 'secret beloved'. Always consider the specific context of the puzzle.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'paramour' if multiple fit the definition?
To distinguish between answers, first, check the number of letters required by the grid. Second, use any intersecting letters from other solved clues to confirm. Finally, consider the puzzle's theme or the overall tone of the clue for subtle hints.