prodigal crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and found the clue "prodigal crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer and deepen your crossword vocabulary.
Solutions for "prodigal crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
LAVISH: Characterized by profuse or lavish expenditure; extravagant. Often used when someone spends excessively on luxuries, hinting at the 'prodigal' nature.
8 Letters
WASTEFUL: Using or expending something carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose. This is a direct and common synonym for 'prodigal' highlighting the act of squandering.
11 Letters
SPENDTHRIFT: A person who spends money in an extravagant, irresponsible way. This answer refers to the individual exhibiting the 'prodigal' behavior, rather than the act itself.
EXTRAVAGANT: Lacking restraint in spending money or resources. A very strong and frequently used synonym for 'prodigal', emphasizing the excessive nature of the spending.
More About "prodigal crossword clue"
The word "prodigal" often appears in crosswords, usually pointing towards ideas of wastefulness, extravagance, or excessive spending. Its most famous usage comes from the biblical parable of the 'Prodigal Son,' who squandered his inheritance. This narrative firmly entrenches the meaning of 'prodigal' in popular understanding as someone who is reckless with resources.
When you encounter "prodigal crossword clue," your mind should immediately go to synonyms that describe lavish expenditure or a lack of financial foresight. Common answers revolve around spending habits that are considered over-the-top or irresponsible. Understanding this core meaning is key to unlocking various crossword solutions, as many different words can convey this sentiment depending on the letter count.
Beyond direct synonyms, clues might hint at the outcome of prodigal behavior (e.g., being in debt) or the traits of a prodigal person. Always consider the context of the puzzle, whether it's a cryptic, quick, or themed crossword, as this can influence the precise nuance required for the answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always read the full clue carefully. Is there a specific number of letters requested? Does the clue imply a noun (the person), an adjective (the trait), or a verb (the action)?
- Check Cross-References: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use them! They can quickly eliminate incorrect solutions and confirm correct ones.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like 'prodigal', consider direct synonyms first. Sometimes, the clue might be a roundabout way of asking for an antonym, so keep an open mind to opposite meanings as well.
- Consider Common Crossword Patterns: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords. As you solve more, you'll start to recognize these patterns and common clue-answer pairings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'prodigal' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'prodigal' most commonly refers to someone who is excessively wasteful or extravagant with money or resources. Look for synonyms like LAVISH, WASTEFUL, EXTRAVAGANT, or SPENDTHRIFT.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'LAVISH' and 'EXTRAVAGANT'?
While both are synonyms for 'prodigal,' the surrounding letters and the specific phrasing of the clue can help. 'LAVISH' often implies generous and extravagant spending, sometimes with a sense of luxury. 'EXTRAVAGANT' is more broadly about exceeding what is reasonable or necessary. Check the letter count first to narrow down possibilities.
Is 'prodigal' always negative in crosswords?
Generally, yes. While 'prodigal' can historically mean 'profuse' or 'abundant' in a neutral sense, in modern crossword usage, it almost always carries the negative connotation of wasteful or recklessly extravagant spending, drawing from the parable of the prodigal son.