wise saying crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your go-to source for solving even the trickiest crossword puzzles. On this page, you'll find all the possible answers and explanations for the clue "wise saying crossword clue". We've categorized them by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "wise saying crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ADAGE: A short, pointed, and memorable saying, often considered a popular truth.
MAXIM: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
GNOME: An archaic term for a pithy or sententious saying, often found in ancient Greek literature.
7 Letters
PROVERB: A short, popular saying, usually of unknown and ancient origin, that expresses some commonplace truth or truism.
8 Letters
APHORISM: A pithy observation that contains a general truth, such as, "if it ain't broke, don't fix it."
More About "wise saying crossword clue"
Clues referring to a "wise saying" are common in crosswords and often point to words that encapsulate traditional wisdom, general truths, or rules of conduct. These can range from well-known proverbs passed down through generations to more formal aphorisms or maxims attributed to specific thinkers. The key to solving these clues often lies in understanding the subtle nuances between terms like adage, proverb, maxim, and aphorism, as each carries a slightly different connotation.
A "wise saying" generally implies a statement that is short, memorable, and widely accepted as true or profound. They serve as cultural touchstones, providing guidance, commentary on human nature, or simply encapsulating common sense. When encountering such a clue, consider the number of letters required and whether the saying is more of a moral lesson, a general observation, or a rule of thumb.
Sometimes, the context of other solved letters in the puzzle can be the biggest hint. For example, if you have an 'A' and an 'E' for a 5-letter word, 'ADAGE' might be a strong contender. Always think about the common synonyms and related concepts that fall under the umbrella of 'wise saying' to broaden your search.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Pay attention to the surrounding clues and already filled-in letters. They can eliminate possibilities or strongly suggest an answer for a "wise saying" clue.
- Consider Letter Count First: Before diving into definitions, always filter potential answers by their exact letter count. This immediately narrows down the options significantly.
- Think of Synonyms & Related Terms: For a clue like "wise saying," brainstorm all words that mean something similar (e.g., motto, dictum, adage, proverb). Even if they don't fit, they might lead you to the correct term.
- Check for Common Phrases: Many crosswords feature common proverbs or idioms. If the clue hints at a phrase, think of well-known expressions that fit the "wise saying" category.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between a proverb and an adage?
While both a proverb and an adage are short, wise sayings, a proverb typically offers practical advice or a moral lesson, often rooted in traditional folk wisdom. An adage, on the other hand, is generally a widely accepted, memorable statement of truth or principle, not necessarily offering moral guidance but more of an observation.
Are 'wise saying' clues always ancient or can they refer to modern phrases?
Crossword clues like 'wise saying' most commonly refer to traditional, established phrases such as proverbs, adages, maxims, or aphorisms, which often have historical roots. However, depending on the puzzle's theme or difficulty, it's not impossible for a setter to refer to a more contemporary widely accepted truth or observation, though it's less common.
How can I distinguish between APHORISM and MAXIM in a crossword?
Both 'aphorism' and 'maxim' refer to short, pithy statements of truth. An aphorism is often a terse, insightful observation, sometimes philosophical or scientific, usually attributed to a specific author. A maxim is more commonly a rule of conduct or a general principle, often acted upon rather than just observed. In crosswords, the surrounding letters or a more specific clue might hint at one over the other.