scarce crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "scarce" 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 helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer for your puzzle.
Solutions for "scarce crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RARE: Not occurring very often; found or occurring in small numbers or quantities.
5 Letters
SCANT: Barely sufficient or adequate; deficient in quantity or extent.
6 Letters
MEAGER: (Of something provided or available) lacking in quantity or quality; lean; thin.
7 Letters
LIMITED: Restricted in size, amount, or extent; few or small in number or amount.
8 Letters
UNCOMMON: Not ordinary or usual; rare.
More About "scarce crossword clue"
The clue "scarce" is a common one in crosswords, and its meaning directly relates to concepts of rarity, insufficiency, or limited availability. When you encounter this clue, your mind should immediately jump to words that convey a sense of 'not much' or 'hard to find'. Depending on the puzzle's difficulty and the setter's style, the synonym required might range from straightforward to more nuanced.
Understanding the context is key. Sometimes, 'scarce' might imply a physical shortage, like "scarce resources." Other times, it might describe something abstract, like "scarce talent." The elegance of crossword clues often lies in their ability to draw out multiple meanings from simple words, so always consider all facets of 'scarce' before committing to an answer. Checking the number of letters available in the grid and how the word intersects with other clues will always be your most reliable method for confirming the solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always start by counting the boxes in the grid for the clue. This immediately narrows down your options significantly, as seen in our categorized answers above.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is using letters you've already filled in from other clues. These intersecting letters will often reveal the correct answer for 'scarce' by eliminating words that don't fit the pattern.
- Consider Nuances and Synonyms: For a clue like 'scarce', think beyond the most obvious synonyms. Could it be about quality (e.g., 'meager' implying poor quality) or frequency (e.g., 'rare' implying seldom)? Expanding your synonym vocabulary will make solving easier.
- Think about Wordplay: Sometimes, 'scarce' might be part of a wordplay clue. While less common for direct synonyms, always be open to puns, anagrams, or hidden words if the direct meaning isn't yielding results.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'scarce' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'scarce' typically points to synonyms like 'rare', 'meager', 'limited', 'scant', or 'uncommon', referring to something that is not abundant or frequently found. The exact answer depends on the number of letters required and any intersecting clues in the puzzle.
How can I find the correct length for 'scarce' answers?
The length of the answer is crucial in crosswords. Always check the number of boxes provided in the grid for the clue. Use the intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved to confirm the precise length and narrow down the possible answers. Our page provides solutions grouped by their letter count to help you efficiently find the right fit.
Are there tricky ways 'scarce' might be clued in crosswords?
Yes, crossword setters love to be clever! 'Scarce' might be clued metaphorically, with a more obscure synonym, or even as part of an idiom. For example, 'Rare' can mean undercooked meat, or 'Scant' can refer to barely enough clothing. Always consider double meanings, less common definitions of synonyms, or even a play on words to crack tougher clues related to 'scarce'.