prisoner crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "prisoner crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "prisoner crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LAG: A slang term for a prisoner, particularly one who has served or is serving a long sentence.
5 Letters
FELON: A person who has committed a felony.
6 Letters
INMATE: A person confined to an institution, such as a prison or asylum.
7 Letters
CONVICT: A person found guilty of a criminal offense and serving a sentence of imprisonment.
8 Letters
DETAINEE: A person held in custody, especially for political reasons or without trial.
More About "prisoner crossword clue"
The clue "prisoner" in a crossword puzzle is a common but versatile one, often leading to a range of possible answers depending on the specific context and letter count. While words like INMATE and CONVICT are immediate associations, the puzzle setter might be looking for more nuanced terms or slang, like LAG, which is a British informal term for a convict, or DETAINEE, implying a different legal status than a convicted prisoner.
Understanding the subtle differences between these terms can be key to solving the clue. For instance, a 'felon' specifically refers to someone guilty of a felony, a serious crime, whereas an 'inmate' is simply someone confined, regardless of their crime or status. Crossword setters often play on these distinctions, expecting solvers to pick up on implied meanings based on adjacent clues or the overall theme of the puzzle.
Additionally, the term "prisoner" can sometimes lead to answers related to being held captive, not necessarily in a legal institution. This broader interpretation can expand the pool of potential solutions, making it essential to consider all possibilities and the exact number of letters required for the answer. Always keep an eye out for any accompanying words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by matching the number of letters in the clue's answer slot with the possible solutions. This is the quickest way to eliminate many options for "prisoner crossword clue."
- Look for Synonyms and Slang: Crosswords love synonyms and informal terms. For "prisoner," think beyond the obvious (e.g., INMATE, CONVICT) to include slang (LAG) or more formal terms (DETAINEE).
- Check Intersecting Clues: Don't solve in isolation. The letters filled in by intersecting clues are your best friends. They will quickly confirm or deny your hypotheses for "prisoner."
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: Does the clue say "political prisoner" or "former prisoner"? These details will guide you to more specific answers like DETAINEE or EX-CON.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'prisoner' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'prisoner' found in crosswords include INMATE, CONVICT, FELON, DETAINEE, and sometimes more informal terms like LAG. The best answer often depends on the letter count and other intersecting clues.
How does the length of the answer affect solving 'prisoner crossword clue'?
The length of the answer is crucial. If you have a 6-letter slot, 'INMATE' might fit perfectly. For 7 letters, 'CONVICT' is a strong candidate. Always use the given letter count to narrow down your possibilities significantly.
Are there different types of 'prisoners' implied in crossword clues?
Yes, crossword clues can be subtle. They might distinguish between a general 'prisoner' and specific types like a 'political prisoner' (often DETAINEE or INTERNEE), a 'convicted criminal' (CONVICT, FELON), or someone 'held captive' (CAPTIVE). Pay close attention to any descriptive words in the clue.