states crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "states crossword clue" and looking for a quick and reliable solution, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "states crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
LANDS: Territories or countries, often used interchangeably with "states" in a geographical sense.
6 Letters
UNIONS: Confederations or groupings of states, such as the European Union or the United States.
7 Letters
NATIONS: Sovereign countries or political entities, a common synonym for states on the global stage.
9 Letters
CONDITION: A particular mode of being or existence, referring to "states" in a non-geographical, abstract sense (e.g., state of health).
COUNTRIES: Similar to nations, independent political units with defined territories and governments, often the intended answer for 'states' clues.
More About "states crossword clue"
The clue "states" is a common one in crosswords because of its versatility. It can refer to a multitude of concepts, from sovereign nations and political subdivisions to abstract conditions or even verbal actions. This ambiguity is precisely what makes it a challenging yet rewarding clue for setters and solvers alike.
When encountering "states" in a puzzle, consider the broader context. Is the puzzle themed around geography or politics? Then answers like NATIONS, COUNTRIES, or UNIONS are likely. If the clue hints at feelings, situations, or physical attributes, then words like CONDITION or MODES might be more appropriate. Always cross-reference with intersecting words to confirm your choice.
Understanding the various definitions of "states" is crucial for mastering this type of clue. From the United States (a federal republic composed of 50 states) to the state of mind, each interpretation opens up a new avenue for a correct answer. This comprehensive page provides solutions across these diverse meanings, helping you solve any puzzle featuring this word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. It immediately narrows down the possibilities, as seen with our categorized answers.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Words like "states" have multiple definitions. Always think beyond the most obvious meaning to consider synonyms for different contexts (e.g., political entity vs. a condition).
- Look at Intersecting Clues: Don't just focus on the single clue. The letters filled in by intersecting words can confirm or rule out potential answers for "states." This is a fundamental crossword strategy.
- Identify the Puzzle's Theme: If the puzzle has a declared theme, or if a pattern of answers emerges, this can guide you towards the correct interpretation of "states." A historical puzzle might lean towards 'nations' while a psychology-themed one might point to 'conditions'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'states' often refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'states' can commonly refer to sovereign countries (like nations), political subdivisions within a country (like US states), or even conditions or emotional states. The context of the surrounding clues is key.
Why are there multiple answers for 'states crossword clue'?
Crossword clues are often designed with multiple possible interpretations or synonyms to increase the challenge. 'States' is a versatile word, making it suitable for various answers depending on the puzzle's theme or specific context, such as referring to countries, political divisions, or modes of being.
How can I distinguish between 'states' as countries vs. 'states' as conditions?
Pay close attention to surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme. Clues about geography, politics, or capital cities often point to countries or political entities. Clues related to feelings, health, or situations might indicate 'states' as in 'conditions' or 'modes of being'.