thin crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! We've got the solutions you need for "thin crossword clue," complete with explanations to help you understand the nuances of each answer. Whether you're looking for a quick fix or a deeper dive into synonyms, you're in the right place.
Solutions for "thin crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SLIM: Denoting a small width or a slender build, often used for people or objects that are not bulky.
LEAN: Having little or no fat, a common synonym for thin, especially when referring to meat or a person's physique.
5 Letters
FRAIL: Easily broken or damaged, delicate and thin, often implying weakness or vulnerability.
GAUNT: Of a person, lean and haggard, especially because of suffering, hunger, or age, suggesting an emaciated appearance.
6 Letters
SKINNY: Unattractively thin, often implying an unhealthy or bony appearance.
9 Letters
EMACIATED: Abnormally thin or weak, especially because of illness or a lack of food, indicating extreme thinness.
More About "thin crossword clue"
"Thin" is a deceptively simple word that can lead to a wide array of answers in crosswords. Its meaning can range from a physical state (a thin person, thin air) to a descriptive quality (a thin argument, thin material). This versatility makes it a favourite among clue setters, offering opportunities for both straightforward synonyms and more cryptic interpretations.
When encountering "thin" in a clue, consider the context carefully. Is it describing a person's build? A type of fabric? The consistency of a liquid? Or perhaps a metaphorical lack of substance? Answers can vary greatly from common adjectives like 'SLIM' or 'LEAN' to more specific or evocative terms like 'FILMY' (for thin material) or 'GAUNT' (for a person's appearance).
Sometimes, "thin" might even appear as part of a longer phrase, requiring a compound word or a multi-word answer. Always cross-reference with letters you've already filled in and the overall theme of the puzzle to narrow down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "thin," consider if the setter implies a positive (e.g., 'SVELTE'), negative (e.g., 'SKINNY'), or neutral (e.g., 'SHEER') connotation. This can significantly help in pinpointing the right synonym.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Letters from intersecting words are your best friends. Even one or two confirmed letters can drastically reduce the number of possible answers for a "thin" clue.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love to use less common synonyms or words that imply "thinness" rather than explicitly stating it. Consider words like 'attenuated' or 'scanty' if the common ones don't fit.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, "thin" might be part of a phrasal verb or idiom, like "thin out" or "thin on the ground." Be prepared for answers that are not single words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes "thin" a common crossword clue?
"Thin" is a versatile word with many synonyms across different contexts (e.g., physically thin, thin material, thin argument), making it a rich source for varied answers and clueing styles. Its broad semantic field allows for creative and challenging clues.
How do I distinguish between similar "thin" answers like "lean" and "slim"?
Pay attention to the surrounding words in the clue. "Lean" often suggests a lack of fat or a slight inclination, while "slim" typically implies a graceful or desirable slender form, or a small chance. Context, word length, and cross-referenced letters are key to distinguishing between close synonyms.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for "thin" answers?
Crossword setters might use prefixes like "ultra-" (e.g., ultrathin) or suffixes like "-ness" (e.g., thinness) to create variations, or employ compound words (e.g., paper-thin). Always consider word length and common collocations when looking for answers involving "thin."