stool pigeons crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "stool pigeons crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RATS: A colloquial term for individuals who betray secrets or inform on others.
5 Letters
SPIES: People engaged in secretly gathering and reporting information, often fitting the role of a 'stool pigeon'.
8 Letters
SNITCHES: An informal term for someone who informs on others, particularly to authorities, perfectly aligning with 'stool pigeons'.
9 Letters
INFORMERS: Individuals who provide information about criminal activity or other secrets, especially to the police or other authorities.
SQUEALERS: Another common informal term for someone who reveals secrets or informs on others, especially in a disloyal way.
More About "stool pigeons crossword clue"
"Stool pigeons" is a colorful idiom that refers to informants, snitches, or individuals who secretly betray others, often to authorities. The term itself evokes an image of a pigeon used as a decoy to attract other birds, but in human context, it implies a deceptive and treacherous role. In crosswords, clues like "stool pigeons" often point to a range of synonyms that capture this essence of betrayal or informing.
Understanding the nuances of such idioms is key to solving crosswords. Depending on the puzzle's tone and the available letter count, the answer could range from blunt, single-syllable terms like RATS to more formal or descriptive words such as INFORMERS. This variety ensures that crossword setters can use the clue effectively across different difficulty levels and grid layouts, challenging solvers to think broadly about synonyms and colloquialisms.
The concept behind "stool pigeons" is universally recognized, making it a popular and versatile crossword clue. It tests not just your vocabulary but also your understanding of idiomatic expressions and their various linguistic equivalents. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, encountering such a clue is a fun mental exercise that reinforces the rich tapestry of the English language.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Letter Count: Always start by checking the number of letters the answer requires. For "stool pigeons," a short answer like RATS (4 letters) is very different from INFORMERS (9 letters), instantly narrowing down possibilities.
- Consider Colloquialisms: "Stool pigeons" is an informal term. Be prepared for answers that are also informal or slang, such as SNITCHES or SQUEALERS, as well as more formal synonyms.
- Look at Crossing Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These are your strongest hints for confirming the correct answer when multiple synonyms for "stool pigeons" exist.
- Think of Context: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can subtly guide you towards the precise synonym the setter had in mind. Is it a crime-themed puzzle? Or perhaps one about birds?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'stool pigeons' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'stool pigeons' refers to individuals who act as informants, betraying secrets, often to authorities. Common answers include RATS, INFORMERS, SNITCHES, or SQUEALERS.
Are there different lengths for 'stool pigeons' answers?
Yes, answers for 'stool pigeons' can vary significantly in length, from short words like RATS (4 letters) to longer ones such as SNITCHES (8 letters) or INFORMERS (9 letters). This variation is common in crosswords, requiring solvers to consider the grid.
How can I figure out the correct answer for 'stool pigeons' in my puzzle?
To determine the precise answer, first check the number of letters required by the crossword grid. Then, consider any crossing letters you've already filled in. Finally, evaluate the nuance of the clue – sometimes a synonym like 'informers' or a more colloquial term like 'rats' will fit the specific puzzle's tone.