raid or incursion crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your go-to resource for solving challenging crossword clues! On this page, you'll find all possible solutions for the clue "raid or incursion," complete with explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "raid or incursion crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RAID: A sudden attack, often by military forces or to seize goods. This term directly aligns with both "raid" and the aggressive aspect of "incursion."
5 Letters
FORAY: A sudden attack or incursion into enemy territory. It can also refer to a brief venture into a new activity or field.
SALLY: A sudden charge out of a besieged place by a defending force, or a brief excursion, often for pleasure. In a military context, it's a type of incursion.
6 Letters
SORTIE: An operational flight by a single military aircraft or an armed attack by troops from a besieged place. It's a specific type of military incursion.
9 Letters
INCURSION: An invasion or attack, especially a sudden or brief one. This answer is a direct synonym provided in the clue itself, often used when longer words are needed.
More About "raid or incursion crossword clue"
The clue "raid or incursion" points to words describing a sudden, often brief, entry into a territory, typically with hostile or exploratory intent. While 'raid' and 'incursion' are very close in meaning, the specific context of the puzzle and the number of letters available will guide you to the correct answer.
Crossword setters often use such clues to test your knowledge of synonyms and the subtle nuances between similar terms. Both 'raid' and 'incursion' carry connotations of a swift, unannounced, and sometimes aggressive movement, be it military, economic, or even metaphorical, like a "foray into a new market." Understanding these layers helps unlock a wider range of potential answers.
Terms like FORAY, SALLY, and SORTIE are common in military contexts but can also be used more broadly. FORAY suggests a brief venture, SALLY implies breaking out, and SORTIE specifically refers to an aircraft or a sally from a besieged location. Knowing these distinctions can be crucial for selecting the precise word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Surrounding Letters: Always look at the letters that cross with your target word. This is the most effective way to narrow down possibilities, especially when multiple answers fit the clue's definition.
- Consider Word Length: The number of boxes in the grid is your absolute guide. If you have multiple synonyms, filter them by length first.
- Think of Nuances: Even if several words mean "raid or incursion," consider the specific connotations. Is it a military action (SORTIE)? A general venture (FORAY)? Or breaking out (SALLY)?
- Look for Common Crossword Traps: Sometimes clues are deliberately misleading. "Raid" might refer to a police raid, or even a 'raid' on the fridge! Always keep an open mind to different interpretations.
- Utilize Online Resources Wisely: Use sites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk not just for answers, but to learn new words and expand your crossword vocabulary for future puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'incursion' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'incursion' often points to words like RAID, FORAY, or SORTIE, implying a brief, sudden, or limited entry into hostile territory or space, either physically or metaphorically.
Are there common synonyms for 'raid' in crosswords?
Yes, besides FORAY and SORTIE, other potential synonyms for 'raid' in crosswords could include DESCENT, ATTACK, or SALLY, depending on the number of letters required and the specific nuance of the clue.
How do I distinguish between similar crossword answers like 'foray' and 'sortie'?
While both imply a brief military expedition, 'FORAY' often emphasizes the initial 'bursting forth' or brief invasion, whereas 'SORTIE' more specifically refers to an operational flight by an aircraft or a sally by troops from a besieged place. Context, surrounding letters, and the specific crossword setter's style are key to distinguishing them.