specimen crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "specimen crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "specimen crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TYPE: A category of things sharing common characteristics, often used when referring to a class of items.
5 Letters
MODEL: A representation, often in miniature, or an ideal example to be imitated.
6 Letters
SAMPLE: A representative item or a small part taken from a larger quantity to show its qualities.
8 Letters
INSTANCE: A specific example or occurrence of something, often used in a more formal context.
More About "specimen crossword clue"
The term "specimen" is quite versatile, appearing in various contexts from scientific research to everyday language. In biology, a specimen is typically a representative example of a species, collected for study. In a broader sense, it can refer to any object or individual that exemplifies a group or type, such as a "specimen of fine craftsmanship" or a "specimen of bad behavior." This versatility makes it a rich source for crossword setters, as it allows for a wide range of synonyms depending on the intended nuance.
When encountering "specimen" in a crossword, it's crucial to consider the implied field or tone of the clue. Is it hinting at a scientific context, suggesting 'sample'? Or is it more about an 'example' of something? Perhaps it refers to a 'type' or a 'model' that something conforms to. The number of letters in the answer box and any intersecting letters will be your best guides in determining which specific synonym the setter is looking for.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Context: For clues like 'specimen', consider if the surrounding words or the puzzle's theme hint at a specific domain (e.g., science, art, behavior) that might narrow down the meaning.
- Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of available boxes. This is the single most important constraint and will immediately rule out many synonyms. Our answers are grouped by length to help you quickly find a match.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm a list of words that mean the same as 'specimen', or even its opposite, if the clue suggests negation. Common synonyms include 'sample', 'example', 'instance', 'type', and 'model'.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from other clues. These will act as powerful filters, helping you confirm or eliminate potential answers for 'specimen'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'specimen' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'specimen' often points to words like 'sample', 'example', 'instance', 'type', or 'model'. It refers to a single item or part used to represent a whole, or a typical case of something. The specific context of the clue and the number of letters available will help narrow down the exact answer.
How do I find synonyms for 'specimen' quickly for crosswords?
Start by brainstorming words that mean 'example' or 'portion'. Think about scientific specimens (samples), or examples of a type (instances). Online thesauruses or crossword-specific dictionaries can be invaluable tools for generating a list of potential synonyms based on the clue's meaning.
Are there common crossword patterns for clues like 'specimen'?
Clues involving 'specimen' frequently appear as straightforward synonym clues. However, they can also be part of a wordplay clue, such as a pun or a double meaning. Look for indicators of wordplay, but generally, expect a direct synonym for 'sample', 'example', or 'type' as the most common pattern.