reason crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "reason crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with explanations to help you understand the context.
Solutions for "reason crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WHY: An interrogative adverb asking for a reason or explanation, often used as a direct synonym for 'reason' in a conceptual sense.
5 Letters
CAUSE: A person or thing that gives rise to an action, phenomenon, or condition; the efficient reason for something happening.
6 Letters
MOTIVE: A reason for doing something, especially one that is hidden or not obvious; a powerful determinant of behavior.
GROUND: A basis for a belief or action; a reason that supports or justifies something.
FACTOR: A circumstance, fact, or influence contributing to a result or outcome; an element of a reason.
7 Letters
PRETEXT: A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason; an ostensible motive.
11 Letters
EXPLANATION: A statement or account that makes something clear; a reason or justification for an act or belief.
More About "reason crossword clue"
The clue "reason" in a crossword puzzle can be surprisingly versatile, leading to a range of answers depending on the specific nuance the puzzle constructor intends. A 'reason' can be a 'cause,' a 'motive,' a 'justification,' or even a simple 'why.' Understanding this broad semantic field is crucial for selecting the correct answer.
When encountering "reason," consider the context of other clues and already filled-in letters. If the clue implies a hidden or underlying justification, words like MOTIVE or PRETEXT might be apt. If it's about the origin of an event, CAUSE or GROUND could fit. The elegance of crosswords lies in these subtle distinctions, challenging solvers to think beyond the most obvious synonyms.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide not just the answers, but also the clarity behind them, helping you not only complete your current puzzle but also improve your solving skills for future challenges. 'Reason' is a perfect example of a clue that benefits from a deeper dive into its various interpretations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most powerful constraint. If "reason" is 3 letters, 'WHY' is a strong contender. If it's longer, you'll need a more descriptive synonym.
- Consider the Clue's Tone: Is the clue playful, formal, or slightly misleading? A cryptic crossword might use "reason" to hint at wordplay, while a standard one will look for a direct synonym.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Don't try to solve a clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are invaluable for confirming or rejecting potential answers.
- Think of Homonyms/Homophones: Sometimes, the "reason" could be a sound-alike word. While less common for direct "reason" clues, it's a good general strategy.
- Explore Different Synonyms: If your initial thought doesn't fit, brainstorm a wider range of synonyms for 'reason' – e.g., 'basis,' 'explanation,' 'logic,' 'sense,' 'rationale,' 'argument.'
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'reason' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'reason' in crosswords include CAUSE, MOTIVE, WHY, GROUND, and BASIS. The specific answer often depends on the clue's nuance and the number of letters available in the grid.
How can I identify if 'reason' refers to a cause or a justification?
Look for contextual words in the clue. Clues like "ultimate reason" or "source of" might point to CAUSE, while "excuse," "pretense," or "justification" could suggest PRETEXT, ALIBI, or DEFENSE. Paying attention to the exact wording around 'reason' is crucial.
Are there any specific crossword conventions for clues involving 'reason'?
Often, 'reason' clues can be quite broad, leading to many possible synonyms. Pay attention to cryptic indicators or wordplay if it's a cryptic crossword. In standard crosswords, it's usually a straightforward synonym hunt, but the surrounding words in the clue are key to narrowing down the precise meaning and choosing the most fitting answer.