by means of crossword – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with "by means of" in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your crossword knowledge.
Solutions for "by means of crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VIA: A Latin word meaning "by way of" or "through," often used in crosswords to indicate a method or route.
4 Letters
THRU: An informal or phonetic spelling of "through," commonly seen in puzzles when space is limited or a colloquial tone is implied.
WITH: Signifies accompaniment or instrumentality, fitting "by means of" in contexts where something is used to achieve an end.
5 Letters
USING: Directly implies the act of employing something as a tool, method, or instrument to achieve a result, synonymous with "by means of."
7 Letters
THROUGH: The most direct and formal synonym for "by means of," indicating the method or medium by which an action is performed or something is accomplished.
More About "by means of crossword"
The phrase "by means of" in a crossword clue often points to a preposition or a word indicating method, instrument, or passage. These clues test your understanding of synonyms and prepositions that denote how an action is carried out. Common answers range from simple, direct words like "VIA" or "BY" to more descriptive terms like "USING" or "THROUGH."
Crossword constructors love using these types of clues because they can be subtly varied. For instance, "by means of" could lead to an answer like "WITH" if the context implies accompaniment, or "PER" if it's about rate. Always consider the precise nuance the clue is trying to convey and think about all possible synonyms that fit the letter count.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If "by means of" is clued for 3 letters, consider "VIA" or "BY." For longer answers, think of "THROUGH" or "UTILIZING."
- Think of Prepositions: Many "by means of" clues resolve to prepositions. Brush up on common prepositions and their various meanings. Words like 'on', 'in', 'at', 'with', 'from' can all sometimes fit the context.
- Consider Synonyms for 'Method': If a direct preposition doesn't fit, think of words that mean "method" or "way." This might lead you to verbs or nouns that can function as answers in different contexts.
- Check Cross-References: Always use intersecting letters from other clues. Even if you're stuck on "by means of," a few confirmed letters from other words can often narrow down the possibilities significantly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do crossword clues sometimes use 'thru' instead of 'through'?
Crossword constructors often use 'thru' (an informal spelling of 'through') for two main reasons: to fit a specific letter count (as 'thru' is shorter) or to indicate a more colloquial or modern usage of a term. It challenges solvers to think beyond standard spellings and consider variations that are acceptable in casual language or proper names.
How can I identify 'means of' clues in crosswords?
Clues indicating 'means of' often use phrases like 'via,' 'by way of,' 'using,' 'through,' 'with,' or even single words like 'by' or 'per.' Look for synonyms that suggest method, instrument, or passage. Understanding common Latin or foreign prepositions (like 'via' or 'per') also helps. These clues primarily focus on the 'how' something is achieved or done.
Are prepositions common crossword answers?
Yes, prepositions are very common in crosswords. Their short lengths and multiple meanings make them incredibly versatile for constructors. Words like 'on,' 'in,' 'at,' 'by,' 'for,' 'to,' 'with,' and 'from' appear frequently, often requiring careful context interpretation to determine the exact answer. They are fundamental to the English language and thus to many crossword puzzles.