shrewd crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "shrewd" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Let's find your solution!
Solutions for "shrewd crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEN: Quick to understand or perceive, often implying a sharp intellect.
5 Letters
ACUTE: Having or showing a perceptive understanding or insight.
6 Letters
ASTUTE: Having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage.
CLEVER: Quick at learning and understanding things.
7 Letters
CUNNING: Having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion. Can sometimes be used in a positive sense for cleverness.
9 Letters
SAGACIOUS: Having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; shrewd.
10 Letters
PERCEPTIVE: Having or showing sensitive insight.
DISCERNING: Having or showing good judgment.
More About "shrewd crossword clue"
The term "shrewd" in crosswords is a rich source of synonyms, pointing towards intelligence, sharp wit, and a keen understanding of situations. It often implies a practical intelligence, where one is able to make good judgments or decisions, especially in a business or financial context, but it can also simply mean 'clever' or 'astute'. When you encounter this clue, think about words that suggest mental acuity or a good sense of perception.
Depending on the specific crossword puzzle and its setter's style, "shrewd" might lead you to answers that emphasize foresight, prudence, or even a degree of craftiness. It's a versatile clue that can challenge solvers to consider various shades of meaning. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters you might already have in your grid to narrow down the possibilities effectively.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always read the full clue carefully. Sometimes other words in the clue (e.g., "shrewd businessman") might hint at a more specific synonym like 'ASTUTE' or 'CANNY'.
- Check Letter Count: The number of boxes in your grid is your most vital clue. Eliminate answers that don't match the length.
- Consider Nuances: Words like 'shrewd' can have slightly different connotations (positive, neutral, slightly negative). If other clues or answers suggest a certain tone, factor that in. For example, 'CUNNING' might fit if the puzzle has a trickier, more ambiguous feel.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve the entire clue at once. Use letters from solved intersecting words to fill in blanks and eliminate unlikely answers for 'shrewd'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shrewd' mean in a crossword clue context?
In crosswords, 'shrewd' typically points to synonyms related to intelligence, cleverness, discernment, or astuteness. It can imply a sharp mind, good judgment, or a keen ability to understand situations, sometimes with a nuance of being crafty or cunning.
How many letters should a 'shrewd' answer be?
Answers for 'shrewd' can vary significantly in length. Common answers range from 4 letters (e.g., KEEN) up to 10 letters (e.g., PERCEPTIVE or DISCERNING). Always check the number of available boxes in your puzzle grid.
Are there negative connotations to 'shrewd' in crosswords?
While 'shrewd' often implies positive qualities like sharp intellect, it can sometimes lean into words with slightly negative or ambiguous connotations, such as 'CUNNING' or 'ARTFUL', especially if the clue contains other suggestive words.