unreliable crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and landed on "unreliable crossword clue", you're in the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you finish your crossword with confidence.
Solutions for "unreliable crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHAKY: Not firm or steady; easily moved or overthrown, suggesting instability.
FLAKY: Eccentric; also, tending to be unreliable or forgetful, often used for people.
DODGY: Of questionable character; dishonest or unreliable, often implying risk.
6 Letters
FICKLE: Changing frequently, especially as regards loyalties, interests, or affection, implying unpredictability.
TRICKY: Difficult to deal with or causing problems; deceptive or requiring careful handling.
7 Letters
UNSOUND: Not sound or healthy; not based on valid evidence or reasoning, lacking integrity.
ERRATIC: Not regular or consistent in course, performance, or behavior, unpredictable.
DUBIOUS: Hesitating or doubting; not to be relied upon, questionable or uncertain.
8 Letters
UNSTABLE: Not stable; prone to change or collapse, lacking firmness or consistency.
10 Letters
CAPRICIOUS: Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior, indicating extreme unpredictability.
12 Letters
INCONSISTENT: Not staying the same throughout; not compatible or in agreement, lacking uniformity.
More About "unreliable crossword clue"
The concept of "unreliable" is a rich vein for crossword setters, as it encompasses a broad spectrum of meanings. It can describe a person who is not dependable, a machine that frequently breaks down, data that isn't trustworthy, or even weather patterns that are unpredictable. This versatility means clues related to 'unreliable' can lead to a diverse range of answers, from short and snappy adjectives to longer, more descriptive terms.
When encountering an "unreliable" clue, consider the context implied by other words in the clue. Is it about honesty, stability, accuracy, or predictability? For instance, a clue hinting at a person's character might lead to answers like FLAKY or DODGY, while one about a faulty mechanism could suggest SHAKY or UNSOUND. Understanding these subtle distinctions is key to cracking the puzzle.
Furthermore, 'unreliable' can often be presented in cryptic ways. A setter might use wordplay or indirect references to point towards a synonym. Keeping an open mind to different interpretations and being familiar with various synonyms will significantly improve your chances of solving these challenging clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the entire clue. Does it imply a person, an object, an abstract concept? This can narrow down the potential synonyms for "unreliable."
- Check Crossing Letters: The most fundamental crossword strategy. Fill in any letters you've confidently solved from intersecting clues. These letters will quickly reveal the correct "unreliable" answer from our list.
- Consider Word Length: Our solutions are grouped by letter count. If you know the exact number of letters needed, you can immediately focus on a smaller set of answers.
- Think Nuance: "Unreliable" has many shades of meaning. Does the clue suggest instability (SHAKY, UNSTABLE), unpredictability (FICKLE, CAPRICIOUS), or untrustworthiness (DODGY, DUBIOUS)?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for 'unreliable' in crosswords?
Crossword clues often have multiple answers because English is rich in synonyms. 'Unreliable' can refer to a person, an object, data, or even a feeling, each with slightly different nuances. Setters use these subtle differences to fit various word lengths and crossing letters in the grid, allowing for words like SHAKY, FLAKY, DODGY, or INCONSISTENT.
How can I determine the correct 'unreliable' answer for my puzzle?
The best way to determine the correct answer is by using crossing letters from other solved clues. Also, consider the specific context of the clue itself. Is it describing a person's character, a mechanical fault, or an inconsistent pattern? The nuance can often point you to the most fitting synonym.
Are there common patterns or indicators for 'unreliable' clues?
Crossword setters might use words like 'uncertain,' 'shifty,' 'unsteady,' 'failing,' or 'inconstant' in the clue to point towards 'unreliable.' Look for indicators of instability, unpredictability, or a lack of trustworthiness. Sometimes, the clue might even be a pun or a cryptic description of an an unreliable character.