police informer crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "police informer" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below you'll find solutions organized by their letter count, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your grid.
Solutions for "police informer crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RAT: A common slang term for someone who informs on others, particularly to the police. Short, punchy, and frequently used in crosswords.
4 Letters
MOLE: Often refers to an informer who works secretly within an organization, providing information to an outside authority like the police.
5 Letters
SNOOP: While more generally meaning to investigate secretly, it can imply someone who gathers and potentially divulges information to the police.
GRASS: Another common British slang term for someone who acts as an informer, especially to the police.
6 Letters
SNITCH: A very common colloquial term for someone who informs on others, especially in a negative or betraying context to law enforcement.
7 Letters
STOOLIE: An informal term for an informer, often used in a slightly derogatory sense for someone who collaborates with the police.
9 Letters
INFORMANT: A more formal term for a person who provides secret information about another person or organization to the police or other authority.
More About "police informer crossword clue"
The term "police informer" or its various synonyms often appears in crosswords due to the rich tapestry of slang and formal language associated with it. From the concise 'RAT' to the more descriptive 'INFORMANT,' these words encapsulate a range of roles, from a casual tipster to a deeply embedded source. Understanding these nuances can not only help you solve crosswords but also deepen your appreciation for wordplay.
Crossword setters love terms like "police informer" because they allow for clever clues that can play on different connotations – betrayal, public duty, secrecy, or even just a simple observation. The challenge lies in distinguishing between the various terms based on letter count and the specific wording of the clue, which might hint at a formal, informal, or even historical context.
When you encounter this type of clue, consider the tone and length. A short, sharp clue might point to a short, sharp answer like 'SNITCH', while a longer, more detailed clue could suggest 'INFORMANT'. Always keep an eye out for how the clue is phrased, as it's often the key to unlocking the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Before anything else, ensure the number of letters you're looking for matches the available spaces in the grid. This is the most crucial step for clues like 'police informer' which have multiple potential answers of varying lengths.
- Consider Slang and Formal Terms: Many words related to "police informer" have both formal (e.g., INFORMANT) and informal/slang (e.g., RAT, SNITCH) equivalents. The clue often hints at which category the answer belongs to.
- Look at Cross-References: Don't try to solve tough clues in isolation. Use letters from intersecting words you've already solved. These crucial letters can quickly narrow down the possibilities for "police informer" to the one correct answer.
- Think About Context: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the overall theme of the crossword can provide subtle hints. Is it a themed puzzle about crime, or perhaps a more general knowledge one?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'police informer' in crosswords?
Common synonyms often include slang terms like RAT, SNITCH, MOLE, GRASS, SQUEALER, and STOOLIE. More formal terms like INFORMANT are also frequent answers.
How does context help in solving 'police informer' clues?
The surrounding words in the crossword grid and any associated clue details can offer vital context. For example, if the clue hints at a short, negative term, 'RAT' or 'SNITCH' might be more likely. If it suggests a long, official term, 'INFORMANT' would fit better. Also, checking for connecting letters from other solved words is crucial.
Why are some crossword clues for informers so brief?
Brief clues often lead to equally brief, commonly understood answers. In the case of 'police informer,' many slang terms are short and widely recognized, making them ideal for concise crossword clues that test general knowledge and vocabulary.