subject crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "subject crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "subject crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
AREA: Often referring to a field or specific domain of knowledge, as in "subject area."
5 Letters
TOPIC: A very common answer when 'subject' refers to the matter being discussed or written about.
THEME: Similar to topic, often referring to a central idea or message, especially in art or literature.
FIELD: As in 'field of study' or 'field of interest', directly synonymous with 'subject' in an academic context.
LIEGE: An older, historical term for a person owing feudal allegiance or service; a loyal subject.
ISSUE: Referring to a point in question or a matter under discussion, often the 'subject' of a debate or controversy.
6 Letters
EXPOSE: When 'subject' is used as a verb, meaning to lay open or make vulnerable to something, as in 'subject to scrutiny'.
More About "subject crossword clue"
The word "subject" is a fascinating and often tricky clue in crosswords due to its rich polysemy – it boasts a multitude of distinct meanings. From a grammatical 'subject' to the 'subject' of a monarch, or a 'subject' of an experiment, and even as a verb meaning 'to put through', its versatility can lead to a wide array of answers across different letter lengths. Crossword setters frequently leverage this ambiguity to challenge solvers, prompting them to consider all possible interpretations before settling on the correct word.
Understanding the context provided by other clues in the puzzle is crucial when facing "subject." Is the puzzle hinting at an academic discipline, a philosophical concept, or perhaps a person? The accompanying words, the tense, and whether the clue is singular or plural can all offer vital clues. Our comprehensive list aims to cover the most common and less common interpretations, ensuring you have every angle covered for this complex crossword staple.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about all possible definitions of "subject" – as a noun (topic, person, field) and as a verb (to cause to undergo).
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. Cross-reference it with the possible answers for each definition.
- Look for Context Clues: Pay attention to any other words in the clue (e.g., "subject to," "royal subject," "art subject") or nearby intersecting answers that can narrow down the meaning.
- Think About Part of Speech: Is the answer a noun, verb, or even an adjective? This can often rule out many incorrect possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the clue 'subject' have so many different answers?
The word 'subject' is highly polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. In crosswords, setters exploit this by cluing one meaning while expecting you to find an answer for another. For example, it could refer to a topic, a person under a ruler, or to 'subject someone to' an action. Each meaning leads to a different set of possible answers, making it a versatile clue.
How can I determine which meaning of 'subject' a crossword setter intends?
Context is key. Look at the number of letters required, any intersecting letters from other clues, and the overall theme or difficulty of the puzzle. If it's plural, or followed by a preposition like 'to', it changes the meaning significantly. Consider if the answer needs to be a noun, verb, or adjective, which helps narrow down the possibilities.
Are there common categories of answers for 'subject' clues?
Yes, common categories include: 1. Topics/Themes (e.g., TOPIC, THEME, ISSUE). 2. Academic Disciplines (e.g., MATH, HISTORY, ART). 3. People (e.g., CITIZEN, LIEGE). 4. Verbs indicating exposure or subjugation (e.g., EXPOSE, SUBDUE). Being aware of these categories can help you quickly retrieve the correct answer.