tacky crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "tacky crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "tacky crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CORNY: Lacking freshness, originality, or sophistication; clichéd.
GAUDY: Extravagantly bright or showy, typically in a tasteless or vulgar way.
CHEAP: Of poor quality or lacking in taste.
6 Letters
SHODDY: Poorly made or done; of poor quality.
VULGAR: Lacking sophistication or good taste; unrefined.
7 Letters
KITSCHY: Characterized by Kitsch, art or objects considered to be in poor taste due to excessive garishness or sentimentality.
More About "tacky crossword clue"
The clue "tacky" is a classic in crosswords due to its versatile meanings, which can range from aesthetically unpleasing to poorly made or even morally questionable. When encountering this clue, seasoned solvers know to consider context carefully. Is the puzzle leaning towards a sense of cheapness, poor quality (like a "tacky" garment), or a lack of social grace (a "tacky" comment)?
Common crossword setters often use "tacky" to elicit answers like GAUDY (for visual tackiness), CORNY (for something unoriginal and trite), or SHODDY (for poor craftsmanship). Less frequently, it might point to terms like CRASS or VULGAR when the context is about behavior or speech. Always consider the number of letters and any letters you already have filled in to narrow down the possibilities. Understanding these nuances is key to quickly solving the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: "Tacky" has multiple shades of meaning. Consider if the clue implies poor taste, poor quality, or something overly sentimental/clichéd. This will help you select the most appropriate synonym.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the required letter count for the answer. This is the fastest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on words like CORNY (5 letters) versus KITSCHY (7 letters).
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from intersecting words. This is often the most critical hint, as it will confirm or eliminate potential answers based on their spelling.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword clues for "tacky" might point to less common synonyms or even words that describe a sticky substance, though this is less frequent for this specific clue. Be open to different interpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "tacky" mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "tacky" often refers to something cheap, in poor taste, gaudy, or lacking refinement. It can imply a physical quality (like flimsy or shoddy materials) or a behavioral/aesthetic one (like crass or vulgar). The specific nuance depends heavily on the context of the puzzle and other intersecting words.
Are there synonyms for "tacky" that frequently appear in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms that often serve as answers for "tacky" include CORNY, GAUDY, CHEAP, SHODDY, CRASS, and VULGAR. Less common but still possible might be KITSCHY or SLEAZY, depending on the puzzle's tone and difficulty.
How can I identify a "tacky" clue's intended answer?
Look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have. Consider the puzzle's overall theme or publisher, as some lean towards more literal or figurative interpretations. Think about different facets of "tacky" – is it about bad taste (GAUDY, KITSCHY), poor quality (SHODDY, FLIMSY), or unrefined behavior (CRASS, VULGAR)? Trying out common synonyms for the given length will often lead to the correct solution.