cliches crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "cliches crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "cliches crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
ADAGES: Short, pithy sayings expressing a general truth, which can become cliches over time.
MAXIMS: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct, similar to an adage or proverb.
7 Letters
TRUISMS: Commonly held beliefs or obvious truths, often used to describe cliches.
10 Letters
PLATITUDES: A remark or statement, especially one with a moral content, that has been used too often to be interesting or thoughtful.
More About "cliches crossword clue"
Cliches are an interesting element in both language and crosswords. In daily communication, they are phrases or ideas that have been overused to the point of losing their original impact or meaning. Think of expressions like "at the end of the day," "think outside the box," or "it is what it is." While once perhaps insightful, their constant repetition makes them feel stale and unoriginal.
In the world of crosswords, "cliches" can refer to these types of overused phrases or, more broadly, to common answers that appear frequently across many different puzzles. These recurring answers, often short and versatile, become familiar to seasoned solvers and can sometimes feel like "gimme" clues. However, they also serve as foundational knowledge for beginners, helping them build confidence and speed.
Understanding the concept of cliches, both linguistic and crossword-specific, can significantly aid your solving process. Recognizing a common cliche clue can unlock a whole section of your puzzle, turning a daunting grid into a satisfying completion.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonymously: When a clue seems like a cliche, consider its synonyms. "Cliches" could be "adages," "maxims," "platitudes," or "truisms." Expanding your vocabulary of related terms is crucial.
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the letters in the empty spaces provided. This is your most direct hint and helps eliminate many possibilities instantly, narrowing down your options to those that fit.
- Look for Common Crossword Cliches: Beyond the clue itself, certain short words are notorious for appearing frequently in puzzles (e.g., OLEO, ERN, ESS). Familiarize yourself with these common answers, as they often intersect with more complex clues.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: If the puzzle has a specific theme (e.g., "words with 'CAT' in them"), clues might relate to that theme in a subtle way. A cliche might be part of a larger themed phrase.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a phrase a crossword cliche?
A phrase becomes a crossword cliche when it appears frequently across many puzzles due to its common meaning, convenient letter count, and broad applicability. Examples might include 'OPEC' for oil group or 'ALE' for beer.
How can I identify cliches in crosswords?
Experience is key. The more puzzles you do, the more you'll recognize recurring answers for common themes or short clues. Pay attention to common word lengths for frequently appearing concepts.
Are cliches considered good or bad in crossword puzzles?
Cliches can be a double-edged sword. For beginners, they offer accessible entry points. For experienced solvers, they can feel stale. Good constructors balance fresh clues with some familiar, yet still challenging, fill.