short of a bob or two crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "short of a bob or two". We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "short of a bob or two crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BROKE: A common informal term for being without money, fitting the idiom.
6 Letters
HARDUP: A British colloquialism meaning experiencing financial difficulty, directly related to being 'short of cash'.
9 Letters
PENNILESS: Literally meaning having no money, a direct synonym for the clue's implication.
More About "short of a bob or two crossword clue"
This clue taps into British slang and historical currency, which are often rich sources for crossword setters. A "bob" was a shilling (12 pre-decimal pence), and "two bob" was two shillings. Therefore, "short of a bob or two" directly implies a state of financial destitution or lacking sufficient funds. Understanding these historical references is crucial for deciphering many UK-centric crossword puzzles.
Crossword setters frequently employ such idiomatic expressions and specific cultural terms to challenge solvers, requiring not just general knowledge but also an understanding of linguistic nuances and sometimes historical context. Recognizing these phrases can unlock many financially themed or colloquial clues, making your crossword-solving journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Understand Idioms & Slang: Many clues, like "short of a bob or two," rely on idiomatic expressions or regional slang. If a clue seems nonsensical literally, consider if it's an idiom or a common play on words.
- Context is Key: Always consider the puzzle's general theme or origin (e.g., British vs. American crosswords often use different slang and references). This can provide crucial hints to the style of answers expected.
- Letter Count as a Guide: The number of letters in the answer is your best friend. It immediately narrows down possibilities, especially for common phrases or synonyms that fit the clue's meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "bob" mean in a crossword clue?
In British crossword clues, "bob" often refers to a shilling, a former British coin worth 12 pre-decimal pence. Clues using "bob" typically relate to money, finance, or historical British terms.
How do I identify idiomatic clues?
Idiomatic clues often don't make literal sense, or their meaning is obscure at first glance. Look for phrases that seem unusual or too simple/complex for a literal interpretation. Think about common sayings or slang related to the words in the clue.
Why are historical currency terms common in crosswords?
Historical currency terms like "bob," "quid," or "guinea" are popular in crosswords because they are part of a rich linguistic heritage, offer compact synonyms for "money" or "wealth," and can be used to create clever wordplay, especially in British-style puzzles.