short saying crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "short saying"? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "short saying crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
MOTTO: A concise statement expressing the guiding principle of a person, organization, or family.
ADAGE: A short, pithy saying that expresses a general truth or principle.
MAXIM: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
6 Letters
SAYING: A short, popular, and often repeated expression, adage, or proverb.
DICTUM: A short, authoritative statement; an adage or maxim.
7 Letters
PROVERB: A short, well-known popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses some general truth or practical precept.
EPIGRAM: A short, often satirical or witty poem or saying.
8 Letters
APHORISM: A concise, pithy statement of a general truth or principle.
More About "short saying crossword clue"
The clue "short saying" often points towards words that encapsulate wisdom, a guiding principle, or a common truth in a compact form. These phrases are deeply ingrained in human culture, serving as mnemonic devices for important lessons, cultural values, or even personal creeds. From ancient proverbs passed down through generations to modern-day mottos adopted by individuals or groups, the concept of a 'short saying' is universal.
In the context of crosswords, such clues test your vocabulary knowledge of synonyms for these concise expressions. Common answers include terms like adage, maxim, proverb, or dictum, each carrying a slightly different nuance but all referring to a brief, impactful statement. Recognizing these distinctions can often be key to pinpointing the exact answer the puzzle setter is looking for.
The beauty of short sayings lies in their ability to convey complex ideas simply. They are a testament to the power of language and its capacity to distil profound insights into memorable forms. Understanding their various categories and common examples will not only aid your crossword solving but also enrich your appreciation for linguistic brevity and wisdom.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of boxes provided in the crossword grid. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for "short saying" and similar clues.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: For a clue like "short saying," brainstorm words related to wisdom, concise statements, rules of life, or well-known phrases. Words like 'adage,' 'maxim,' 'proverb,' 'motto,' and 'epigram' are frequent answers.
- Look for Contextual Hints: If the puzzle is themed (e.g., a "wisdom" theme), this can reinforce answers related to short sayings. Also, check intersecting letters from other solved clues; they are invaluable for confirming your choice.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an adage and a proverb?
While often used interchangeably, an adage is typically a widely accepted truth or saying that has gained credibility over time due to its wisdom, whereas a proverb is a short, popular saying that expresses a common truth or piece of advice, often metaphorical.
How do short sayings appear in crosswords?
Short sayings can appear directly as the answer (e.g., MOTTO, ADAGE), or the clue might hint at a category of sayings (e.g., "Words of wisdom," "Brief maxim"). Sometimes, a famous quote or part of one might be clued.
Are all crossword clues for short sayings always a single word?
Not always. While many answers like ADAGE or MAXIM are single words, a crossword might also clue a two-word phrase that acts as a short saying (e.g., "Old saw" for an adage), though for the specific clue "short saying crossword clue", a single word is most likely.