tops crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on "tops crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below, you'll find solutions organized by their letter count.
Solutions for "tops crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ACME: The highest point or stage, as of achievement or development; the peak.
5 Letters
PEAKS: The pointed top of a mountain or hill, or the highest point of achievement.
6 Letters
CROWNS: The top part of a head or tree; also, to complete or bring to a successful end.
7 Letters
SUMMITS: The highest points of mountains; often used for high-level meetings.
EXCEEDS: To be greater than or surpass in quantity, degree, or extent; to 'top' something.
More About "tops crossword clue"
"Tops" is a versatile word in the English language, making it a favorite for crossword constructors due to its multiple meanings and contextual interpretations. Beyond just referring to the highest physical points like mountains or buildings, "tops" can imply superiority, excellence, or the act of surpassing. This broad scope means that solvers need to pay close attention to the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the crossword puzzle.
When you encounter "tops crossword clue," consider whether the answer should be a noun (like a summit), a verb (like to surpass), or even an adjective (like best). The number of letters is your primary guide, but also think about synonyms for each of these categories. For instance, if the clue is accompanied by an indicator of excellence, words like ACES or BEST might be relevant. If it's about a physical location, PEAKS or SUMMITS are more likely candidates.
Sometimes, "tops" might even be part of a pun or a more abstract concept. A 'top' might refer to headwear or a spinning toy, though these are less common in general knowledge crosswords unless specifically hinted at. Developing an awareness of these different angles will significantly improve your ability to solve such clues swiftly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: Before jumping to the most obvious meaning, pause and think about other interpretations of the word "tops." Does the clue hint at a synonym for 'best', a verb for 'surpass', or a literal 'summit'?
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the given letter count to narrow down your options immediately. This helps eliminate answers that are too long or too short, even if they seem conceptually correct.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Are there other clues in the puzzle that relate to mountains, achievements, clothing, or action? The theme of the crossword can often provide vital hints for ambiguous words like "tops."
- Think About Plurals: If the clue uses "tops" in the plural, ensure your answer is also plural (e.g., PEAKS, SUMMITS, CROWNS). This is a common pitfall.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "tops" typically mean in crossword clues?
In crosswords, "tops" can have multiple meanings depending on the context. It most commonly refers to the highest points (like PEAKS, SUMMITS, ACME), but can also imply superiority (BEST, ELITE), or even an action of surpassing (EXCEEDS, SURPASSES). Sometimes it can refer to articles of clothing or spinning toys.
How does the letter count help with "tops" clues?
The letter count is crucial for 'tops' clues as it narrows down the possibilities significantly. For example, if you need a 5-letter word, PEAKS might be the answer, but if it's 7 letters, SUMMITS or EXCEEDS could fit. Always use the given letter count to eliminate unlikely answers and focus on those that match.
Are there common tricks for "tops" crossword clues?
Yes, common tricks include considering synonyms that aren't immediately obvious, thinking about different parts of speech (noun vs. verb), or looking for plural forms if the clue implies multiple 'tops'. Also, check if the clue uses a pun or a specific context that might hint at an unusual meaning for 'tops'.