tall and ungainly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "tall and ungainly," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "tall and ungainly crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
LANKY: Refers to someone or something ungracefully thin and tall.
6 Letters
GANGLY: Describes someone or something tall, thin, and awkward in movement or appearance.
7 Letters
SPINDLY: Implies something long, thin, and often weak or flimsy, fitting the 'ungainly' aspect.
More About "tall and ungainly crossword clue"
The clue "tall and ungainly" is a classic descriptive crossword clue that asks for a single word encapsulating both height and awkwardness. Words like 'gangly' and 'lanky' are prime examples, as they perfectly blend the concepts of being unusually tall with a lack of grace or coordination. Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to solving such puzzles.
Crossword setters often use such combined adjectives to test a solver's vocabulary depth. While 'tall' itself is straightforward, 'ungainly' adds a layer of complexity, directing solvers to words that specifically describe a tall entity that moves awkwardly or appears disproportionately thin and long. This type of clue encourages solvers to think beyond simple synonyms and consider words that convey a specific visual or physical characteristic.
Paying attention to the context of the puzzle, such as the number of letters required and any intersecting words, will help you pinpoint the exact answer. Whether it's a person, an animal, or even a plant, 'tall and ungainly' words depict something that stands out due to its height and less-than-elegant form.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Break Down the Clue: For multi-word descriptive clues like "tall and ungainly," analyze each adjective separately. Think of synonyms for "tall" and then for "ungainly." Then, look for words that combine both concepts.
- Consider Nuance: Some words, like 'spindly,' might fit part of the description (tall, thin) and imply the other (ungainly, due to fragility). Think about the subtle meanings implied by each potential answer.
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters provided in the grid against your potential answers. This is often the quickest way to narrow down possibilities, especially when multiple words could fit the description.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them as vital clues. They can confirm your suspicions or help you choose between multiple fitting answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ungainly' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'ungainly' typically points to words describing awkwardness, clumsiness, or an ungraceful appearance or movement. Combined with 'tall,' it narrows down options to words like GANGLY or LANKY that specifically convey a disproportionate or awkward height.
How do I find synonyms for descriptive clues like 'tall and ungainly'?
When faced with descriptive clues, start by breaking down each adjective. For 'tall and ungainly,' consider synonyms for 'tall' (e.g., lanky, gangly) and 'ungainly' (e.g., awkward, clumsy). Then look for words that encompass both meanings. Consulting a thesaurus or an online crossword solver can be very helpful.
Are there other words for 'tall and ungainly' in crosswords?
While GANGLY and LANKY are very common answers, other less frequent but potentially valid options could include SPINDLY (implying thin and often awkward due to fragility) or even AWKWARD if the clue emphasizes the 'ungainly' aspect more broadly. The context of surrounding letters is key.