skittles crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "skittles crossword clue" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the likely solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer for your puzzle.
Solutions for "skittles crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PINS: Often used interchangeably with skittles, referring to the objects knocked down in the game. This is a very common and direct answer.
GAME: Skittles is a type of game, making this a general but valid answer depending on the context of the puzzle.
7 Letters
BOWLING: Skittles is considered a form of bowling, where players roll or throw an object to knock down pins. This is a common and appropriate synonym.
TENPINS: A specific and widely recognized variant of the skittles game, commonly known as ten-pin bowling. This answer is precise when the clue implies a particular type.
8 Letters
NINEPINS: The original and traditional form of skittles, involving nine pins arranged in a diamond or square shape. This is a classic answer for the clue.
More About "skittles crossword clue"
The clue "skittles" in a crossword puzzle most commonly refers to the traditional game rather than the popular fruity confectionery. Skittles, as a game, is a long-standing pastime involving knocking down pins with a ball or a 'cheese' (a wooden disc). It's a precursor to modern bowling and boasts a rich history, especially in the UK and parts of Europe, where various regional forms thrive.
When you encounter this clue, crosswords often test your knowledge of synonyms for the game itself, its components (like the pins), or actions associated with it. The number of letters in the answer is usually the biggest hint. Answers like PINS or GAME are concise, while BOWLING, TENPINS, or NINEPINS provide more specific details about the type of skittles being played.
Occasionally, a trickier crossword might allude to the candy 'Skittles'. In such cases, the surrounding clues or the overall theme of the puzzle would typically provide a strong indication, perhaps mentioning 'sweets', 'flavors', or 'rainbow'. However, for most general crosswords, the game remains the primary meaning for "skittles."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think if a word has more than one common meaning. For "skittles," it's crucial to distinguish between the game and the candy based on context.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters required is your most valuable hint. It immediately narrows down possibilities from general terms like 'PINS' to specific variations like 'NINEPINS'.
- Look for Synonyms and Actions: If the clue implies a verb (e.g., 'to skittle' meaning to scatter), think of synonyms for that action. If it's a noun, consider associated objects or related activities.
- Cross-Reference with Other Clues: As you fill in other parts of the crossword, the intersecting letters will confirm or rule out potential answers for "skittles crossword clue," providing much-needed clarity.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between skittles and bowling?
Skittles is a general term for a family of bowling games. While 'bowling' often refers specifically to ten-pin bowling, 'skittles' encompasses many variations, including nine-pin, five-pin, and others, often with different pin arrangements and ball types. All bowling is a form of skittles, but not all skittles is ten-pin bowling.
How can I tell if 'skittles' refers to the game or the candy in a crossword?
Context is key! If the clue involves words like 'game,' 'pins,' 'alley,' 'knock down,' or 'sport,' it likely refers to the game. If the clue mentions 'sweets,' 'fruit flavors,' 'candy,' 'rainbow,' or a specific brand, it's more likely referring to the confectionery. The number of letters in the answer is also a crucial hint.
Are there regional variations of skittles?
Yes, absolutely! Skittles has many regional variations across the UK and Europe. Examples include West Country Skittles (often played in pubs with cheese-shaped pins), German Kegel, and French Quilles. Each variation might have unique rules, pin setups, and ball types, making the game very diverse.