brink crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "brink," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "brink crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LIP: The edge or rim of an object or surface, often used in a figurative sense to denote the brink.
4 Letters
EDGE: The border or extreme limit of an object, surface, or area; a common synonym for brink.
BRIM: The very top edge of a cup, bowl, or other container; can be used metaphorically for a full state, or literally as an edge.
CUSP: A point of transition or change, often implying being on the verge of something new or different.
5 Letters
VERGE: An edge or border; frequently used in the phrase 'on the verge of', meaning close to the brink of an action or state.
9 Letters
THRESHOLD: A point of entry or beginning; often used to describe the starting point of a new situation or period, similar to a brink.
More About "brink crossword clue"
"Brink" in crosswords usually points to a boundary, a limit, or the very edge of something. It can be a literal physical edge, like the brink of a cliff, or a metaphorical one, such as being on the brink of disaster or a breakthrough. Crossword setters love this word because it has several common synonyms of varying lengths, offering flexibility in puzzle design.
When you encounter 'brink' as a clue, think about synonyms that imply an extreme point or a transition. Common answers include words like EDGE, VERGE, and THRESHOLD. The key is to consider the context of the puzzle, including any other letters you might have filled in, and the specific number of letters required for the answer. This will help narrow down the possibilities from a potentially long list of related terms.
The word "brink" itself comes from Old Norse and German roots, meaning an edge or border. Its enduring presence in language, both common and literary, makes it a staple for crossword constructors aiming for concise yet evocative clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Consider if "brink" is used literally (e.g., a physical edge) or metaphorically (e.g., on the verge of a decision). This can help you choose between very similar synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters you've filled in from other clues are your best friends. They can quickly eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the right one for "brink."
- Brainstorm Synonyms by Length: Before looking up answers, try to list all the synonyms you can think of for "brink" (edge, verge, limit, threshold, cusp, rim, lip, etc.), then categorize them by their letter count.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes "brink" might be part of a larger phrase (e.g., 'on the brink'), which could lead to different multi-word answers or require you to think about accompanying prepositions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "brink" typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'brink' commonly refers to an edge, verge, threshold, or limit. It implies being on the verge of something, either literally at an edge or metaphorically at the start of a new phase.
How do I differentiate between similar answers like "edge" and "verge"?
To differentiate, consider the specific nuance of the clue and other intersecting letters. 'Edge' is a more general term for a boundary, while 'verge' often implies being at the point just before something happens (e.g., 'on the verge of tears'). The context of other clues in the puzzle can also provide hints.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for answers related to "brink"?
While 'brink' itself doesn't have common crossword prefixes/suffixes, related answers might appear with common endings like '-ing' (e.g., edging, verging) if the clue implies an action. Always focus on the core meaning of the root word suggested by the clue.