chum crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the "chum" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "chum crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PAL: A common informal term for a close friend or companion.
4 Letters
MATE: Often used informally as a friendly term of address, especially in British English, meaning friend or companion.
5 Letters
BUDDY: An informal term for a close friend or companion, widely used in American English.
6 Letters
FRIEND: A person whom one knows and with whom one has a bond of mutual affection, a general term for an associate.
More About "chum crossword clue"
"Chum" is a versatile word that frequently appears in crossword puzzles, primarily as a synonym for a friend or companion. Its informal nature means that accepted answers are often equally casual terms, making words like PAL, MATE, and BUDDY common solutions. The clue's brevity sometimes makes it tricky, as solvers need to consider the exact letter count required by the puzzle grid.
Beyond its most common meaning, "chum" can also refer to chopped fish used as bait, especially in fishing. While less common in general knowledge crosswords, expert-level or themed puzzles might occasionally use this alternative meaning. Always check surrounding clues or existing letters in the grid if the 'friend' synonyms don't fit, to see if a fishing-related answer is implied.
Understanding the nuances of such common words is key to mastering crosswords. "Chum" is a perfect example of a word with a primary, widely recognized meaning, but also a specific secondary definition that crossword setters love to use to catch solvers off guard. Being aware of both possibilities can significantly improve your solve rate.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters in the answer grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for words like "chum" which have multiple synonyms.
- Consider Context: Look at other filled-in letters or related clues. Sometimes, a theme or a specific type of language (e.g., British English for "mate") can give hints.
- Think Broadly & Narrowly: Start with the most common meanings (friend), but if those don't fit, consider less common or alternative meanings (like fishing bait).
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, try solving intersecting clues first. The letters revealed in those answers can make the "chum" clue much easier to solve.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'chum' mean in a crossword clue?
In crossword puzzles, 'chum' typically refers to a close friend, companion, or associate. It often leads to answers like PAL, MATE, or BUDDY, depending on the required letter count.
Are there other meanings for 'chum' in crosswords?
While 'friend' is the primary meaning, 'chum' can also refer to chopped fish or bait used for fishing. If the clue hints at fishing or marine terms, consider answers related to bait or lure.
How can I distinguish between similar 'friend' clues?
Pay attention to the letter count, any accompanying words in the clue (e.g., 'old chum,' 'school chum'), and the crossword's overall theme or difficulty. Sometimes, a more formal or informal synonym might be expected based on context.