sparing or thrifty crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for "sparing or thrifty crossword clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly pinpoint the correct answer for your puzzle.
Solutions for "sparing or thrifty crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FRUGAL: Economical in use or expenditure; not wasteful. This word perfectly encapsulates both 'sparing' and 'thrifty'.
7 Letters
THRIFTY: Using money and other resources carefully and not wastefully. Directly from the clue, a very common and fitting answer.
SPARING: Abstaining from, or careful in the use of, something. Also directly from the clue, focusing on the careful usage aspect.
10 Letters
ECONOMICAL: Careful in the use of money, materials, or resources. This answer emphasizes efficiency and avoidance of waste.
12 Letters
PARSIMONIOUS: Unwilling to spend money or use resources; stingy or frugal to excess. This word often carries a slightly more negative connotation than 'frugal' or 'thrifty'.
More About "sparing or thrifty crossword clue"
The clue "sparing or thrifty" is a classic example of a crossword clue that points towards words related to careful resource management, economy, and avoidance of waste. Both 'sparing' and 'thrifty' suggest a prudent approach to spending money, consuming resources, or even using words. Understanding the nuances between potential answers like FRUGAL, ECONOMICAL, and PARSIMONIOUS is key, as some imply positive traits while others might lean towards stinginess.
Crossword setters often use such clues to test your vocabulary regarding financial habits and resourcefulness. While 'thrifty' strongly relates to money, 'sparing' can also refer to being careful with effort, time, or even emotions. For instance, 'sparing with words' means saying little. This dual meaning allows for a wider range of possible answers, making the letter count and intersecting letters crucial in narrowing down the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: For clues like "sparing or thrifty," think about whether the answer should have a positive connotation (e.g., FRUGAL, THRIFTY) or a potentially negative one (e.g., PARSIMONIOUS, STINGY).
- Check Letter Count First: Always cross-reference your potential answers with the required letter count. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities, especially when multiple synonyms exist.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck, fill in letters from crossing clues first. Even one or two letters can significantly narrow down the options for a stubborn clue like this one.
- Think Beyond Money: While 'thrifty' is often about money, remember that 'sparing' can apply to other resources like time, words, or effort. This might open up unexpected synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sparing' imply in a crossword clue?
In crossword puzzles, 'sparing' typically refers to the act of using something carefully, minimally, or avoiding waste. It can suggest answers related to conservation, economy, or restraint, such as FRUGAL, THRIFTY, or perhaps CONSERVATIVE depending on the context.
How does 'thrifty' relate to crossword answers?
'Thrifty' in crosswords almost always points to answers that mean economical, careful with money, or good at managing resources. Common answers include FRUGAL, PROVIDENT, or ECONOMICAL. It generally carries a positive connotation of being wise with expenditures.
Are there negative synonyms for 'sparing or thrifty' clues?
Yes, while 'sparing' and 'thrifty' are often positive, clues hinting at excessive carefulness with money might lead to negative synonyms like STINGY, MISERLY, or PARSIMONIOUS. Always consider the nuance provided by the clue's wording and any intersecting letters to determine the best fit.