prime crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "prime" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "prime crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
TOP: Indicating the highest point or level, often used to denote something of supreme quality.
4 Letters
MAIN: Signifying the most important or principal element; chief in importance.
BEST: Denoting the highest quality, excellence, or desirability; unsurpassed.
AONE: An informal term meaning of the highest quality or excellence, first-rate.
5 Letters
FIRST: Indicating the initial or earliest stage, position, or quality; primary.
CHIEF: Having the highest rank or importance; principal or leading.
More About "prime crossword clue"
"Prime" is a versatile word that crosswords love to use, precisely because it has several distinct meanings. Beyond its most common uses like "first," "main," or "best," it can also refer to prime numbers in a mathematical context (e.g., "number not divisible by two or three"), or even a specific cut of meat (e.g., "beef cut"). This multifaceted nature means that solvers need to pay close attention to the letter count and intersecting letters to narrow down the correct answer.
Understanding these nuances is crucial for solving. For instance, if the clue is accompanied by an adjective that hints at quality, "BEST" or "AONE" might be the solution. If it refers to precedence or origin, "FIRST" or "MAIN" could be appropriate. The beauty of such clues lies in their ability to test a solver's vocabulary breadth and their ability to interpret subtle contextual hints within the puzzle.
Always consider the overall theme of the crossword and other solved clues, as they can often provide valuable context. Sometimes, a seemingly straightforward clue like "prime" can lead to surprisingly uncommon answers, requiring a deeper dive into its less-used definitions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Letter Count: The number of letters is your most important hint. If "prime" could be "TOP" (3 letters) or "FIRST" (5 letters), the count immediately narrows your options.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from other clues. These are definitive clues for verifying or disproving a potential answer for "prime."
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of all possible synonyms for "prime" and even its antonyms if it's a cryptic clue. Words like "initial," "peak," "foremost," or "leading" are good starting points.
- Look for Wordplay (for Cryptic Clues): If it's a cryptic crossword, "prime" might hint at an anagram, a hidden word, or even a homophone. Be aware of these possibilities.
- Cross-Reference Meanings: If an obvious synonym doesn't fit, think about less common meanings of "prime," such as its use in mathematics (prime number) or specific trades (prime cut of meat, priming a pump).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "prime" typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, "prime" often refers to something being first, excellent, main, or principal. It can also hint at a "prime number" in more cryptic clues, or even a specific cut of meat. The context of the puzzle is key.
How do I identify a "prime" answer in a crossword?
Look at the letter count provided and any intersecting letters. Consider synonyms for "first," "best," "main," or "top." Context from other clues in the puzzle can also guide you towards the correct interpretation of "prime."
Are there common traps when "prime" is a clue?
Yes, "prime" can be a homophone (e.g., "pry'm" for something that primes), or relate to very specific meanings like "prime meridian" or "prime coat" in a specialized field. Always consider wordplay or specific domains if it's a cryptic clue or the common synonyms don't fit.