crossword clue characteristic – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "characteristic," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue characteristic" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TRAIT: A distinguishing quality or personal feature.
7 Letters
FEATURE: A distinctive attribute or aspect of something.
QUALITY: A distinguishing characteristic, property, or attribute.
8 Letters
HALLMARK: A mark or characteristic feature, especially a mark of quality.
9 Letters
ATTRIBUTE: A quality or characteristic ascribed to someone or something.
11 Letters
PECULIARITY: An odd or unusual feature or habit.
More About "crossword clue characteristic"
"Characteristic" is a versatile clue in crosswords because it points to the fundamental nature or distinguishing quality of a person, thing, or concept. When you encounter this clue, think about synonyms that describe inherent properties or identifying features. Clues related to "characteristic" often require you to consider the specific context of the puzzle, as the precise nuance can lead to different answers.
Understanding the various lengths and meanings of words like TRAIT, FEATURE, ATTRIBUTE, and QUALITY is crucial. These terms all broadly define what makes something unique, but their specific applications can vary. For instance, a 'trait' might refer to a personality aspect, while a 'feature' could be a physical attribute. Always cross-reference with existing letters in your grid to narrow down the most fitting solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For clues like "characteristic," immediately brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. This broadens your options and helps find the word that fits the letter count.
- Use Crossing Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is the most effective way to eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the correct one, especially when multiple words share a similar meaning.
- Consider Nuance and Context: Some clues might hint at a specific type of characteristic (e.g., a 'defining characteristic' might favor 'hallmark' or 'essence'). Pay attention to any additional words or phrases in the clue that might refine its meaning.
- Don't Force It: If an answer doesn't quite fit or makes other intersecting words impossible, it's likely incorrect. Don't be afraid to erase and try another possibility, even if it seemed promising at first.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'characteristic' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'characteristic' typically refers to a distinguishing feature, quality, or attribute of something. When encountered as a clue, you'll generally be looking for a synonym that fits the given letter count and intersects with other solved words.
Why are there so many potential answers for 'characteristic'?
'Characteristic' is a broad term with a rich vocabulary of synonyms, such as 'trait', 'feature', 'quality', 'attribute', and 'peculiarity'. This allows puzzle setters to use it for various word lengths, making it a versatile clue.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like TRAIT and FEATURE?
The best way to distinguish between similar answers is by using the intersecting letters from other solved clues. If there are no intersecting letters, consider the nuance of the clue itself or other clues in the puzzle that might hint at a more specific context. Often, it comes down to trial and error with the available letters.