scoundrel crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible solutions for the crossword clue "scoundrel crossword clue", meticulously organized by letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle. Whether you're stuck on a tricky spot or just need a quick confirmation, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "scoundrel crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CAD: A man who behaves dishonorably, especially towards a woman.
4 Letters
RAFF: A disreputable person; a rascal.
5 Letters
ROGUE: A dishonest or unprincipled person; a rascal.
7 Letters
VILLAIN: A wicked or evil person.
9 Letters
SCOUNDREL: A dishonest or unprincipled person; a rascal. (Sometimes the clue itself is the answer!)
More About "scoundrel crossword clue"
The term "scoundrel" in a crossword puzzle context typically refers to a character who is morally corrupt, dishonest, or generally despicable. It's a classic crossword staple because it offers a range of synonyms of varying lengths, making it versatile for setters to use. While often implying a male character, the term broadly applies to anyone exhibiting such traits.
Clues involving "scoundrel" can sometimes be direct synonyms, but they might also be more descriptive, like "dishonourable fellow" or "villainous type." Knowing a good range of synonyms, from short common ones like CAD or ROGUE to longer, more elaborate terms, is key to cracking these clues efficiently.
Beyond its literal meaning, "scoundrel" carries a certain old-fashioned charm, often evoking images from historical novels or plays. This classic feel makes it a popular choice for traditional crosswords, requiring solvers to dig into their vocabulary of traditional English terms for miscreants.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Before looking up any clue like "scoundrel," always count the number of empty squares. This is the single most important piece of information, as it immediately filters out most incorrect answers.
- Consider Common Synonyms: For a clue like "scoundrel," have a mental list of common short synonyms (CAD, ROGUE, KNAVE). These are frequent answers for shorter word lengths.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If multiple answers fit the length (e.g., ROGUE and KNAVE for 5 letters), use the letters from already-solved intersecting clues to confirm the correct word. This is often the deciding factor.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, the clue itself (scoundrel) might be the answer if it fits the letter count. Don't overlook this possibility, especially in cryptic crosswords or if no other common synonym fits.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "scoundrel" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "scoundrel" is a common clue for words referring to a dishonest, unprincipled, or generally bad person. It can imply mischief, villainy, or a lack of moral character. Answers often include synonyms like ROGUE, KNAVE, CAD, or even VILLAINS depending on the length.
Are there common synonyms for "scoundrel" frequently used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms for "scoundrel" in crosswords often include CAD (3 letters), RAFF (4 letters), ROGUE (5 letters), KNAVE (5 letters), and VILLAIN (7 letters). Sometimes, less common terms like RASCAL or NE'ER-DO-WELL might also appear for longer answers.
How do I handle clues with multiple possible "scoundrel" answers?
When facing multiple potential answers for a "scoundrel" clue, rely on the letter count and intersecting letters from other solved clues. For example, if you need a 5-letter word, it could be ROGUE or KNAVE. The surrounding letters are crucial to narrowing down the correct solution.