secret crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "secret crossword," you've landed on the perfect page. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you understand the solution and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "secret crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CLUE: A hint or piece of information used to solve a puzzle, often subtly hidden.
CODE: A system of words, letters, figures, or symbols used to represent others, especially for the purposes of secrecy.
6 Letters
ENIGMA: A person or thing that is mysterious or difficult to understand, much like a challenging crossword.
TEASER: A short puzzle or riddle designed to pique curiosity, often with a hidden answer.
7 Letters
CRYPTIC: Having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure; directly refers to a style of crossword known for its hidden meanings.
MYSTERY: Something that is difficult or impossible to understand or explain, fitting for a 'secret' element in a puzzle.
More About "secret crossword"
The phrase "secret crossword" might seem unusual, as crosswords are generally designed to be solved, not kept secret. However, this clue often points to the very nature of crossword puzzles, especially those of the cryptic variety, where the answers are cleverly concealed within the clue itself. The 'secret' lies in deciphering the wordplay, double meanings, and cunning definitions that obscure the direct path to the solution.
Many solvers find the challenge of unlocking these 'secrets' to be the most rewarding aspect of crosswords. It's not just about knowing vocabulary; it's about understanding the subtle artistry of clue construction. From anagrams to hidden words, and from homophones to charades, each technique represents a layer of 'secrecy' that solvers must peel away. Understanding these mechanisms transforms a seemingly impenetrable puzzle into a delightful journey of discovery.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Wordplay Indicators: If a clue feels like a "secret crossword," it's likely a cryptic clue. Look for words like "broken," "confused," "mixed up" (anagrams); "sounds like," "heard" (homophones); "in," "part of" (hidden words).
- Identify the Definition: Even in a complex clue, there's usually a straightforward definition for the answer. Try to isolate this part first, as it gives you the core meaning. The rest is wordplay.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words have several meanings. Crossword setters often exploit this by using a less common or obscure meaning of a word in the clue, making the answer a "secret" until you think broadly.
- Think about common crossword patterns: Sometimes, the number of letters itself is a powerful hint. If you have an answer like "CRYPTIC" for "secret crossword", it's a very direct fit, and knowing common crossword patterns helps you narrow down possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'secret crossword'?
While 'secret crossword' isn't a formal crossword term, it commonly refers to clues or puzzles that hide their true meaning or answers in a non-obvious way. This is particularly true for cryptic crosswords, where clues use wordplay, anagrams, and double meanings to obscure the solution, making it a 'secret' until decoded.
How can I solve cryptic or 'secret' crossword clues?
Solving cryptic clues often involves looking for indicators of wordplay (like 'might be', 'perhaps', 'broken' for anagrams; 'sounds like' for homophones). It's crucial to identify the 'definition' part of the clue and the 'wordplay' part. Practice and familiarity with common cryptic devices are key to unlocking these 'secrets'.
Are all crosswords 'secret crosswords'?
No, not all crosswords are considered 'secret crosswords'. Standard (or 'straight') crosswords have direct definitions, where the clue straightforwardly describes the answer. The term 'secret crossword' is more applicable to cryptic crosswords or puzzles where the answers are deliberately concealed through complex wordplay and indirect hints.