surmise crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "surmise", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "surmise crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
GUESS: To form an opinion or conclusion about something without sufficient evidence. This is a very common and direct synonym for surmise in crossword puzzles.
INFER: To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning rather than explicit statements. Often used when surmise implies drawing a conclusion from facts.
6 Letters
DEDUCE: Arrive at a fact or conclusion by reasoning; draw as a logical conclusion. While surmise can be less certain, deduce can be an outcome of such an act.
7 Letters
SUSPECT: To have an idea or impression of the existence, presence, or truth of (something) without certain proof. This aligns closely with the meaning of surmise, implying an unverified belief.
10 Letters
CONJECTURE: An opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information. This longer answer perfectly captures the essence of surmising, often implying a theory or hypothesis.
More About "surmise crossword"
"Surmise" is a versatile verb frequently encountered in crosswords, meaning to suppose that something is true without having definite evidence. It implies an educated guess or an inference based on available clues, making it a perfect fit for the problem-solving nature of crosswords. Clues using 'surmise' often test your ability to find synonyms that range from common, everyday terms like 'guess' to more formal or subtle words like 'infer' or 'conjecture'.
Understanding the subtle distinctions between these synonyms can be key to unlocking a challenging puzzle. While 'guess' is often a broad term, 'infer' suggests a conclusion drawn from reasoning, and 'deduce' implies a logical certainty. 'Surmise' often sits in the middle, implying a reasoned conclusion that still lacks full proof. Cryptic crossword setters might play on these nuances or use 'surmise' in a more abstract way, focusing on the act of forming a mental impression.
Always consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have, as these will be your strongest guides in narrowing down the possibilities for 'surmise'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brainstorm Synonyms: When you see 'surmise' or similar clues, immediately think of its closest synonyms: guess, infer, deduce, suspect, theorize, conjecture. Write them down and see which ones fit the letter count.
- Check Part of Speech and Tense: Ensure your answer matches the clue's grammatical form. If 'surmise' is used as a verb in the past tense (e.g., 'surmised'), your answer should also be in the past tense (e.g., 'GUESSED').
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. They'll quickly eliminate incorrect synonyms and confirm the correct one. Don't be afraid to try out a few possibilities.
- Consider Cryptic Definitions: For cryptic crosswords, 'surmise' might be clued indirectly. Look for wordplay, anagrams, or hidden words that lead to 'guess' or 'infer'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'surmise' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'surmise' typically points to words meaning to guess, infer, or deduce something without definite proof. Common answers include GUESS, INFER, or SUSPECT, depending on the letter count and other intersecting letters.
Are 'guess' and 'surmise' always interchangeable in crosswords?
While 'guess' is a very common answer for 'surmise', they aren't always perfectly interchangeable outside of crosswords. 'Surmise' often implies a more considered, though still unproven, conclusion based on subtle indications, whereas 'guess' can be more random. However, for the sake of brevity and common usage in puzzles, 'guess' is frequently used.
How can I confirm a 'surmise' answer in a puzzle?
To confirm your 'surmise' answer, check the intersecting letters from other clues. If they form valid words for those clues, you're likely on the right track. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue and see if your chosen synonym fits best among the possibilities.