type of number crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all the possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "type of number". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just looking to expand your crossword vocabulary, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "type of number crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ODD: An integer that is not divisible by 2. Often clued as "not even" or "uneven".
4 Letters
EVEN: An integer that is divisible by 2. Frequently clued as "divisible by two" or "not odd".
REAL: A number that can be found on a continuous number line; includes rational and irrational numbers. Often contrasted with "imaginary".
5 Letters
PRIME: A natural number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself. Common examples are 2, 3, 5, 7. Clues might refer to "fundamental numbers" or "indivisible figures".
WHOLE: Non-negative integers (0, 1, 2, 3...). Often used to describe numbers without fractional parts, like "complete count".
FLOAT: In computing, a floating-point number, which can represent a wide range of real numbers. Can appear in tech-themed crosswords.
7 Letters
INTEGER: A whole number (positive, negative, or zero), but not a fraction or decimal. Often clued as "whole figure" or "number without a fraction".
COMPLEX: A number that can be expressed in the form a + bi, where 'a' and 'b' are real numbers, and 'i' is the imaginary unit. Often clued with reference to "imaginary parts".
NATURAL: The set of positive integers (1, 2, 3...) or sometimes including zero. Usually refers to counting numbers.
8 Letters
RATIONAL: A number that can be expressed as a fraction p/q of two integers, a numerator p and a non-zero denominator q. Examples include 1/2, 3/4, or 5 (which is 5/1). Clues often imply "fractional" or "quotient".
More About "type of number crossword clue"
The world of numbers is vast and fascinating, and crosswords love to tap into its diverse terminology. Clues like "type of number" can refer to a fundamental mathematical classification, often challenging solvers to recall specific definitions or properties. These clues test not just your vocabulary but also your basic arithmetic and number theory knowledge.
From simple classifications like ODD and EVEN, which relate to divisibility by two, to more complex concepts like PRIME numbers (only divisible by one and themselves) or RATIONAL numbers (expressible as a fraction), understanding these distinctions is key. Crossword constructors appreciate these terms because they are precise and widely understood within mathematics, making for fair yet challenging clues.
Beyond the common types, puzzles might delve into more advanced areas like REAL numbers (any number on the number line) or COMPLEX numbers (involving an imaginary part), especially in more advanced or themed crosswords. Always consider the length of the required answer, as this will significantly narrow down the possibilities among the various number classifications.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: This is paramount for number-related clues. A "type of number" clue will have many possible answers, but only one will fit the given length. Double-check your count.
- Consider the "Opposite": Many number types have direct opposites. If the clue is "not even", think ODD. If it implies "not fractional", consider INTEGER or WHOLE.
- Look for Context Clues: Words in the clue like "only by one and itself" points to PRIME. "With an imaginary part" suggests COMPLEX. These specifics are invaluable hints.
- Think Broadly & Narrowly: Start by considering the most common number types, then if those don't fit, think about more specific or even niche mathematical terms that could apply.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common types of numbers in crosswords?
Common number types often found in crosswords include ODD, EVEN, PRIME, REAL, INTEGER, and RATIONAL. These are fundamental mathematical concepts that lend themselves well to concise clueing.
How can I distinguish between similar number-related answers?
Pay close attention to the exact wording of the clue. For instance, 'not even' points directly to ODD, while 'divisible by two' implies EVEN. Contextual words like 'imaginary part' might lead to COMPLEX, or 'fractional' to RATIONAL. The length of the answer is also crucial.
Are there numerical clues that aren't about number types?
Absolutely! Crosswords frequently feature clues related to quantities (e.g., A DOZEN, A SCORE), sequences (e.g., FIBONACCI), specific historical or cultural numbers (e.g., PI), or even numerical prefixes (e.g., UNI, BI, TRI). Always consider the broader context of the clue.