plain and simple crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue 'plain and simple crossword clue', you've come to the right place. Our comprehensive list provides solutions of various lengths, along with explanations to help you understand the context and complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "plain and simple crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MERE: Simply; nothing more than. For instance, 'a mere trifle'.
BARE: Without addition or adornment; just the essentials. 'The bare facts'.
5 Letters
BASIC: Forming an essential foundation or starting point; fundamental.
6 Letters
CANDID: Truthful and straightforward; frank. 'A candid opinion'.
10 Letters
ELEMENTARY: Relating to the most basic principles of a subject; simple.
13 Letters
UNCOMPLICATED: Not complex or difficult; easy to understand or do.
More About "plain and simple crossword clue"
The phrase "plain and simple" is a common descriptor found in everyday language and, consequently, in crossword puzzles. It generally refers to something that is direct, straightforward, unadorned, or easy to understand without any complexity or embellishment. In crosswords, clues using this phrase often point to words that convey these qualities, requiring solvers to think of synonyms that capture the essence of straightforwardness or minimalism.
When you encounter such a clue, consider answers that denote fundamental concepts, lack of ornamentation, or sheer directness. Common answers might range from words like 'basic' or 'mere' to more descriptive terms like 'uncomplicated' or 'unvarnished', depending on the letter count required. The beauty of this clue lies in its ability to lead to a diverse set of solutions, each reflecting a facet of its core meaning.
Understanding the context in which "plain and simple" is used can significantly aid in solving. It could refer to a manner of speaking, a style of design, or the fundamental truth of a statement. Always cross-reference with other completed answers in your puzzle to narrow down the possibilities and ensure your chosen solution fits perfectly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Break Down the Clue: For multi-word clues like "plain and simple," consider the individual meanings of 'plain' and 'simple' as well as their combined meaning. Sometimes the answer is a synonym for one word, or a direct interpretation of the phrase.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Always pay attention to whether the clue is a noun, verb, adjective, or adverb. This helps in selecting an answer that matches grammatically with the clue. For "plain and simple" (an adjective phrase), answers will typically be adjectives.
- Look for Common Crossword Themes: Many crossword constructors have favorite themes or common word associations. Over time, you'll start to recognize patterns in how certain concepts (like simplicity or directness) are clued.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do crosswords often use common phrases like "plain and simple"?
Phrases like "plain and simple" are common in crosswords because they are versatile and can lead to a wide range of synonyms, testing a solver's vocabulary across different contexts. They often point to foundational or straightforward concepts, making them excellent candidates for direct definition clues.
How can I tell if a clue implies a short or long answer?
Clues themselves rarely explicitly indicate length; instead, the number of dashes in the crossword grid (e.g., _ _ _ _) or the known letters from intersecting words will give you the precise length. Experienced solvers often consider common short answers first, as they appear frequently.
What's the difference between a cryptic and a standard crossword clue?
A standard crossword clue (like "plain and simple") directly defines the answer or uses a straightforward synonym. A cryptic clue, however, combines a definition with a wordplay element (such as an anagram, pun, or hidden word), making it more complex and requiring a different approach to deciphering.