word opposite in meaning crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Below you will find comprehensive solutions for "word opposite in meaning crossword clue" along with explanations to help you understand the context.
Solutions for "word opposite in meaning crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
ANTONYM: A word whose meaning is the opposite of another word, commonly used in linguistic and crossword contexts for this exact definition.
8 Letters
OPPOSITE: Directly contrary or in opposition to something else. This word serves as a direct and often interchangeable term for an antonym in crosswords.
More About "word opposite in meaning crossword clue"
The clue "word opposite in meaning" is a classic in the world of crosswords, almost universally pointing to the concept of an antonym. Understanding this fundamental linguistic concept is key to quickly solving a wide array of word puzzles. Antonyms are pairs of words that represent opposing concepts, such as 'hot' and 'cold', 'light' and 'dark', or 'up' and 'down'.
Crossword setters frequently use this type of clue because it taps into a basic understanding of vocabulary and semantic relationships. While 'ANTONYM' is the most direct and academically precise answer, general terms like 'OPPOSITE' are also perfectly valid and commonly accepted, depending on the number of letters required for the puzzle slot. Always consider the context of the entire puzzle, particularly the intersecting letters, to confirm the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Core: For clues like "word opposite in meaning," immediately think of linguistic terms or direct synonyms for 'opposite'. Antonyms, synonyms, and homophones are common crossword themes.
- Check Letter Count: The number of spaces provided for the answer is your strongest hint. If 'word opposite in meaning' has 7 letters, 'ANTONYM' is likely; if it has 8, 'OPPOSITE' is a strong contender.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Don't try to force an answer if it doesn't fit with letters from other solved clues. The intersecting letters are the ultimate arbiters of correctness.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Ensure your answer matches the part of speech implied by the clue. If the clue implies a noun, your answer should be a noun.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an antonym in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, an antonym is a word that means the opposite of another word. Clues often use phrases like 'word opposite in meaning' or simply provide a word whose antonym is the answer.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Many words in the English language have synonyms or antonyms that could fit a clue. Multiple answers often exist due to the nuanced nature of language, different possible interpretations of the clue, or varying levels of common usage. The intersecting letters from other clues are crucial for determining the correct answer.
How do I choose the correct answer when there are multiple for 'word opposite in meaning'?
To select the correct answer, rely on the number of letters required by the puzzle (if indicated) and, most importantly, the letters that intersect from other solved clues. These intersecting letters will narrow down the possibilities to the one correct solution for that specific puzzle.