radical crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Searching for solutions to "radical crossword clue"? You've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, explanations, and tips to help you conquer your puzzle.
Solutions for "radical crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ION: In chemistry, a radical can be an atom or group of atoms having an unpaired electron, often an ion. A simple, short answer for this complex term.
4 Letters
ROOT: Pertaining to the base, origin, or fundamental part of something. Also, in mathematics, a radical sign denotes a root (like a square root).
7 Letters
EXTREME: Describing something very far from the norm or moderate; often implying a radical position or measure.
LEFTIST: Politically, a person holding radical liberal or socialist views; often associated with the 'radical left'.
8 Letters
REFORMER: One who advocates for significant, often radical, change, especially in political or social systems.
9 Letters
ANARCHIST: A person who believes in or tries to bring about anarchy, often associated with radical political views seeking to abolish all government.
13 Letters
REVOLUTIONARY: Involving or causing a complete or dramatic change. Frequently used to describe radical political, social, or technological movements.
More About "radical crossword clue"
"Radical" is a fascinating and multifaceted word in the English language, making it a popular and sometimes tricky crossword clue. Its meanings span several domains, including politics, mathematics, and chemistry. In a political context, it typically refers to someone or something that advocates for thorough or extreme changes, often departing significantly from traditional or moderate views. This can lead to answers like ANARCHIST, LEFTIST, or REVOLUTIONARY.
Beyond politics, "radical" also has a precise mathematical meaning, referring to the symbol used to indicate a root (such as a square root or cube root) of a number, making ROOT a common answer. In chemistry, a "radical" is a species with unpaired electrons, often highly reactive, and can sometimes be clued more broadly, though less commonly, as ION.
The key to solving a "radical" clue lies in considering the number of letters and any intersecting words. If the clue has a broader hint related to "extreme" or "fundamental," that opens up even more possibilities. Understanding these various contexts is crucial for any crossword enthusiast.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For versatile clues like "radical," always think about its various definitions across different fields (politics, math, chemistry, general extremity).
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters required for the answer is often the strongest hint. It immediately narrows down the possibilities and can help differentiate between common short answers like ROOT and longer, more specific ones like REVOLUTIONARY.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters from crossing words, use them to eliminate unlikely answers and confirm the correct one. This is especially helpful when multiple answers fit the letter count.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes, a "radical" clue might be looking for a synonym or even an antonym (if clued as "not radical"). Keep a thesaurus in mind!
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different meanings of 'radical' in crosswords?
The term 'radical' in crosswords is often a versatile clue, referring to political extremists (e.g., anarchist, leftist), fundamental origins (root), or even chemical groups (ion). The specific context of the puzzle's theme or other crossing words usually helps narrow down the intended meaning.
How can I tell if 'radical' refers to politics or mathematics?
If the clue 'radical' is paired with synonyms for 'extremist' or 'revolutionary,' it's likely political. If it's used alongside terms like 'square' or 'cube' or 'base,' it often refers to the mathematical root. Always check the number of letters required for the answer, as this can be a strong indicator.
Are there any common short answers for 'radical'?
Yes, common short answers for 'radical' include ROOT (4 letters, for origin or mathematics) and ION (3 letters, for a chemical radical), depending on the specific context of the clue and the puzzle.