small cases crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "small cases" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all the likely answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "small cases crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PODS: Small, often hard, cases for seeds or other items, or small self-contained units.
KITS: Small sets of tools or supplies, often contained within a small case or bag.
5 Letters
ETUIS: Small ornamental cases, often for needles, toothpicks, or other small articles.
BOXES: Small, typically rectangular, containers with a lid, used for storing various items.
More About "small cases crossword clue"
The clue "small cases" is a classic example of how crosswords use common words in specific, sometimes archaic, contexts. While 'cases' can refer to a multitude of things – legal arguments, instances, or luggage – the addition of 'small' immediately points towards a container. However, not just any container will do; crosswords often prefer more precise or less common terms to challenge the solver.
Answers like 'ETUIS' highlight this perfectly. An etui is a very specific type of small, decorative case, making it an ideal candidate for a crossword clue that requires a precise fit. Other answers like 'PODS' and 'KITS' rely on their inherent meaning as small, contained units for specific purposes, demonstrating the variety of ways 'small cases' can be interpreted in puzzle logic. Understanding these nuances can significantly improve your solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Word Length: Always cross-reference the number of letters provided for the answer. This is the single most important constraint in a crossword puzzle.
- Think Synonyms & Specificity: For clues like "small cases," brainstorm various synonyms for 'small' and 'case.' Then, try to think of more specific or less common words that fit both descriptions, like 'etui.'
- Look for Obscure Terms: Crossword setters often favor words that are technically correct but not commonly used in everyday conversation. If a common answer doesn't fit, consider more obscure but valid alternatives.
- Utilize Cross-Reference Letters: If you have letters filled in from intersecting clues, use them to narrow down the possibilities for "small cases." This can often reveal the correct, even if unexpected, answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes 'ETUIS' a common crossword answer for 'small cases'?
Its specific, somewhat obscure meaning as a small, ornamental case (often for needles or toothpicks) makes it a classic crossword staple. Crossword setters love words that are precise but not everyday vocabulary, providing a good challenge for solvers.
How can I distinguish between 'PODS' and 'KITS' if both are 4 letters for 'small cases'?
The key is often in the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme. 'PODS' usually relate to natural containers (like seed pods) or technological ones (earpods). 'KITS' more commonly refer to a collection of specific tools or supplies, implying a functional purpose for the 'case' (e.g., first aid kit, sewing kit).
Are there other types of 'case' clues commonly found in crosswords?
Yes, the word 'case' is versatile in crosswords. It can refer to legal cases (e.g., 'court case'), grammatical cases (e.g., 'nominative case'), larger luggage items ('suitcase'), or even just a 'scenario' or 'instance' (e.g., 'as is often the case'). The qualifier 'small' usually narrows it down to a physical container.