violent criminal crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "violent criminal" in your current crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to ensure you find the perfect fit for your grid.
Solutions for "violent criminal crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
THUG: A violent, brutal person, often involved in organized crime. A very common and direct answer for this type of clue.
5 Letters
FELON: A person who has committed a felony, often implying a serious crime which can include violence, making it a viable answer in many puzzles.
7 Letters
HOODLUM: A young ruffian or gangster, typically involved in street crime and often violence. A classic crossword term.
RUFFIAN: A brutal, violent, or cruel person; a lawless bully. Another excellent fit, often found in more traditional crosswords.
8 Letters
GANGSTER: A member of a gang of criminals, by definition often associated with organized crime and violent activities. A highly common and appropriate answer.
9 Letters
DESPERADO: A reckless, desperate, or violent person, often an outlaw or criminal, particularly in a historical or Western context.
More About "violent criminal crossword clue"
The clue "violent criminal" is a straightforward yet versatile one in crosswords, often eliciting answers that denote a person who breaks the law with force or aggression. Puzzlemakers frequently use such clues to test your vocabulary of synonyms for delinquents, outlaws, and those involved in serious offenses.
When encountering this clue, consider the specific nuances of the surrounding words in the puzzle and any existing letters in the grid. Some answers like 'THUG' are very general, while others like 'DESPERADO' might hint at a particular context or era. The number of letters is always your primary guide, but also think about the tone or style of the crossword – is it modern or classic, British or American English focused?
Understanding these subtle differences will help you pinpoint the exact answer the setter intended, making your crossword solving experience smoother and more enjoyable. Our list provides a range of options to cover most scenarios you might encounter.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly for "violent criminal" or any other clue.
- Consider Synonyms & Context: Think about all possible synonyms for "violent criminal" beyond the most obvious ones. Sometimes, a puzzle will use a less common or more specific term (e.g., 'RUFFIAN' instead of 'THUG').
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from intersecting clues. These are your strongest allies in confirming the correct answer when multiple options fit the letter count.
- Explore Different Eras/Themes: Some answers, like 'DESPERADO', carry a specific historical or genre connotation. If your puzzle has a theme, this might be a hint.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of answers should I expect for 'violent criminal' clues?
For 'violent criminal' clues, expect terms that directly denote aggressive lawbreakers or individuals associated with organized crime. Common answers include synonyms like THUG, HOODLUM, GANGSTER, or more archaic terms like RUFFIAN or DESPERADO, depending on the puzzle's style and era.
How does the letter count affect 'violent criminal' answers?
The letter count is crucial. For shorter answers (3-5 letters), you might find 'THUG' or 'FELON'. Mid-length answers (6-8 letters) could be 'HOODLUM', 'RUFFIAN', or 'GANGSTER'. Longer answers (9+ letters) might yield 'DESPERADO' or 'SCOUNDREL'. Always cross-reference the number of letters with the available spaces in your grid.
Are there historical or cultural contexts for 'violent criminal' answers?
Yes, some terms carry historical or cultural connotations. 'DESPERADO' often evokes images of the Wild West. 'GANGSTER' points to organized crime, particularly from the early 20th century. Recognizing these nuances can help you select the most fitting answer when multiple options present themselves, especially in themed puzzles.