upstart crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "upstart". We've gathered all possible answers, categorized by their letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "upstart crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
NOVICE: A beginner or newcomer to a field or activity.
ROOKIE: A new recruit, especially in sports or a profession.
7 Letters
PARVENU: A person of humble origin who has gained wealth or social standing but is considered lacking in the appropriate social graces or acceptance by others.
8 Letters
NEWCOMER: A person who has recently arrived somewhere or been introduced to something new.
NEOPHYTE: A person who is new to a subject, skill, or belief; a novice.
16 Letters
JOHNNYCOMELATELY: A person who has only recently arrived or become involved in a place or activity, often used to imply they are unwelcome or presumptuous.
More About "upstart crossword clue"
"Upstart" is a fascinating word often appearing in crosswords due to its nuanced meaning. It describes someone who has suddenly risen in status, wealth, or power, but often carries a connotation of being presumptuous, arrogant, or not fully accepted by the established elite. Crossword setters love words like this because they can be clued in multiple ways, focusing on the 'new' aspect, the 'rising' aspect, or the 'disruptive/impolite' aspect.
When you encounter "upstart" in a clue, consider the context. Is it purely about a new person, like a novice? Or is it about someone who has become powerful quickly, perhaps with an implied lack of breeding or respect for tradition, like a parvenu? The surrounding clues and the number of letters required will usually guide you to the precise answer. Understanding these subtle differences is key to mastering such clues.
The term "upstart" itself suggests a sudden, perhaps aggressive, beginning. It implies an individual who has "started up" quickly and without the usual progression or validation. This makes it a rich source for wordplay and synonyms in crossword puzzles, ranging from simple terms for a beginner to more complex, often pejorative, descriptions of a social climber.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "upstart," consider whether the setter is focusing on the 'newness' (e.g., NOVICE) or the 'social climbing/arrogance' (e.g., PARVENU) aspect. This often dictates the best synonym.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is the most reliable way to confirm or narrow down potential answers for tricky clues.
- Think About Word Length: The exact number of letters is your most crucial hint. If you have several possible answers, like ROOKIE and NEWCOMER, the letter count will tell you which one is correct.
- Consider Slang or Formal Terms: Some "upstart" answers might be informal (JOHNNYCOMELATELY), while others are more formal (NEOPHYTE). The puzzle's overall tone can sometimes give a hint.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "upstart" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'upstart' typically refers to someone who has recently gained prominence, wealth, or power but is perceived as presumptuous or lacking proper social standing. Clues might lean into either the 'newly risen' or 'arrogantly ambitious' aspect of the term.
Are there common synonyms for 'upstart' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include NOVICE, ROOKIE, NEWCOMER, PARVENU, NEOPHYTE, and sometimes more derogatory terms like JOHNNYCOMELATELY or bounder, depending on the setter's intent and the puzzle's tone.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'upstart'?
Look at the letter count provided and any intersecting letters. The specific wording of the clue might also hint at the nuance: 'New person' suggests NEWCOMER, 'social climber' might suggest PARVENU, while 'beginner' points to NOVICE or ROOKIE.