petty details crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "petty details crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate answers along with helpful explanations to keep your puzzling momentum going strong.
Solutions for "petty details crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
TRIFLES: Insignificant things or matters; something of little value or importance. This is a very common answer for clues about minor or unimportant details.
8 Letters
MINUTIAE: The small, precise, or trivial details of something. Often used to refer to a collection of such details, emphasizing their thoroughness or excessive number.
More About "petty details crossword clue"
"Petty details" is a classic crossword clue that aims to test your vocabulary around concepts of insignificance, triviality, or extreme precision. It often directs solvers towards words that describe small, unimportant matters or the finer points of a subject that might be overlooked by many. The challenge lies in finding the exact synonym that fits the given letter count, as there can be multiple words conveying a similar meaning.
Clues like this are fundamental to crosswords, requiring both a broad vocabulary and an understanding of nuanced word meanings. While 'trifles' implies a lack of importance, 'minutiae' can also suggest a focus on precision, even if the details themselves are minor. Context from other solved words in the puzzle is always key to pinpointing the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Clues like "petty details" are often based on synonyms. Think of other ways to say "small things," "unimportant matters," or "fine points." Conversely, sometimes knowing the antonyms can lead you to the right path.
- Check Word Length Carefully: This is the most crucial tip for clues with multiple possible answers. If you have "petty details" and already know you need a 7-letter word, TRIFLES immediately becomes a strong candidate.
- Use Cross-References: Don't just focus on one clue. The letters you fill in from other intersecting words are your best friends. They'll quickly confirm or eliminate possibilities for "petty details."
- Think About Context and Tone: Does the puzzle have a particular theme? Is the clue part of a more formal or informal set of clues? This can subtly guide you towards words like 'minutiae' (more formal) versus 'trifles' (more general).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "petty details" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "petty details" usually refers to small, insignificant, or trivial aspects of something. Common answers include words like TRIFLES or MINUTIAE, which directly convey this sense of unimportance or precise, minor points.
Are there common traps with "petty details" clues?
Yes, sometimes "petty details" can be interpreted as petty arguments or criticisms about small things, leading to answers like QUIBBLES or NITPICKING. Always consider the surrounding letters and the overall puzzle theme to confirm the nuance.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like TRIFLES and MINUTIAE for this clue?
While both fit, TRIFLES often implies something of low value or importance, suggesting a dismissive attitude. MINUTIAE, on the other hand, emphasizes fine, precise, or extensive small points, often in a more neutral or even comprehensive context. The number of letters available is often the deciding factor in crosswords.