quail group crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most accurate and common solutions for the crossword clue "quail group crossword puzzle clue", complete with explanations to help you understand the context and solve your puzzle effortlessly.
Solutions for "quail group crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BEVY: This term is sometimes used for a small group of quail, particularly in a social or elegant context. While 'covey' is more common, 'bevy' is a valid alternative for a group of birds.
5 Letters
COVEY: The definitive and most widely accepted collective noun for a group of quail. This term refers to a small group of quail, usually found on the ground.
BROOD: This answer specifically refers to a family group of young quail, typically with their parents, that have hatched at the same time.
More About "quail group crossword puzzle clue"
The clue "quail group" points to a collective noun, a specific type of word used to describe a collection of animals, people, or things. For quail, the term "covey" is by far the most recognized and frequently used. Quail are small to medium-sized birds, generally ground-dwelling, and are known for their distinctive calls and rapid, low flights when disturbed. They often live in these small groups for protection and foraging.
Understanding these collective nouns is a common element in crossword puzzles. Puzzlemakers love to include obscure or specific collective nouns to challenge solvers. While "covey" is the primary answer, variations like "bevy" or "brood" (for young quail) can sometimes appear, demonstrating the richness of the English language when describing animal groupings.
This clue highlights the importance of precise vocabulary in crosswords. Knowing the difference between generic terms (like "flock" for birds in general) and specific terms (like "covey" for quail) is key to solving these types of puzzles efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think of Collective Nouns: When a clue mentions a group of animals, your first thought should be to recall common (or even obscure) collective nouns. Keep a mental list or a quick reference for terms like 'covey', 'herd', 'pack', 'murder', etc.
- Consider Word Length: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. If you know multiple possible answers for a collective noun, the length will often narrow it down. For "quail group," if the space is 5 letters, 'COVEY' is a strong candidate. If it's 4, 'BEVY' might fit.
- Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue will offer additional context. For instance, "young quail group" would strongly suggest 'BROOD' over 'COVEY'. Pay attention to subtle nuances in the wording.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "covey" specifically mean for quail?
A "covey" refers to a small group of quail, typically consisting of a family unit or several families that stay together for foraging and protection, especially outside of breeding season. They are often found flushed from cover.
Why are collective nouns popular in crosswords?
Collective nouns are popular in crosswords because they are specific, sometimes unusual, and test a solver's vocabulary depth. They often require precise knowledge beyond general terms, making them challenging yet fair clues.
How can I remember different collective nouns for animals?
One effective way is to group them by type (e.g., birds, mammals, fish) or to create flashcards. Regular exposure through reading and solving crosswords will also naturally build your knowledge over time. Focusing on the most common ones first is a good strategy.