secular crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "secular" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "secular crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LAIC: Pertaining to non-clerical, lay persons; often used in contrast to religious or ecclesiastical.
5 Letters
CIVIL: Relating to ordinary citizens and their concerns, not military or religious matters.
7 Letters
WORLDLY: Concerned with earthly matters or aspects of life rather than spiritual or religious ones.
8 Letters
TEMPORAL: Relating to worldly as opposed to spiritual affairs; of or relating to time.
9 Letters
NONSACRED: Not considered holy, divine, or consecrated; ordinary or profane.
More About "secular crossword clue"
"Secular" is a fascinating word in crosswords because it touches upon a fundamental distinction: that which is separate from religious or spiritual concerns. When you see this clue, the setter is often nudging you towards words that describe non-religious aspects of life, governance, or society. It can refer to institutions like 'civil' government, or concepts such as 'temporal' power, differentiating them from their ecclesiastical counterparts.
Understanding the nuances of 'secular' is key. It's not necessarily 'anti-religious,' but rather 'non-religious.' This subtlety can guide you to more precise answers. For instance, while 'profane' also means non-sacred, it often carries a connotation of disrespect, which 'secular' does not. Always consider the context and the required letter count to pinpoint the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Crossword setters love 'secular' for its versatility, allowing for clues that range from straightforward definitions to more subtle references to historical periods or philosophical concepts. Keeping a mental list of common synonyms like 'LAIC' or 'WORLDLY' can significantly speed up your solve time when this clue appears.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For clues like "secular," consider if there's any implied tone. Is it purely descriptive, or does it hint at a contrast (e.g., 'not sacred')? This can help narrow down options.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match your potential answers to the given letter count. For "secular," solutions could be short like LAIC (4) or longer like NONSACRED (9).
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it fits with other words in the grid. Even if you're sure of a 'secular' answer, a single intersecting letter can confirm or deny it.
- Consider Related Fields: "Secular" is often tied to areas like law, government, history, or philosophy. Thinking about terms from these fields can sometimes spark the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'secular' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'secular' refers to things that are not religious, spiritual, or sacred. It often points to answers like LAIC, WORLDLY, TEMPORAL, or CIVIL, focusing on the material or non-clerical aspects of life.
Are there common synonyms for 'secular' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms and related terms include LAIC, CIVIL, WORLDLY, TEMPORAL, EARTHLY, PROFANE, and MUNDANE. The exact answer will depend on the number of letters required and other crossing clues.
How can I distinguish 'secular' from similar clues like 'worldly'?
While 'secular' and 'worldly' are often interchangeable, 'secular' specifically emphasizes the separation from religious institutions or beliefs. 'Worldly' can also imply being sophisticated or experienced in the ways of the world. In crosswords, pay attention to the exact phrasing of the clue and the letter count. For instance, 'worldly' might lead to PROFANE or EARTHLY, while 'secular' could point to NONSACRED or LAIC.