crossword clue instrument – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "instrument," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, ranging from musical devices to tools and other common crossword interpretations, along with helpful explanations. Find your solution quickly, no matter the letter count!
Solutions for "crossword clue instrument" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DRUM: A percussion instrument played by striking.
HARP: A large, often triangular, stringed instrument played by plucking.
5 Letters
PIANO: A large keyboard musical instrument with felt-covered hammers that strike steel strings.
FLUTE: A high-pitched woodwind instrument played by blowing across a hole or into a mouthpiece.
6 Letters
GUITAR: A stringed musical instrument, typically with six strings, played by plucking or strumming.
VIOLIN: A stringed musical instrument with four strings, played with a bow.
7 Letters
TRUMPET: A brass musical instrument with a flared bell and a bright, penetrating tone.
UKULELE: A small, four-stringed Hawaiian guitar, a member of the lute family.
8 Letters
CLARINET: A single-reed woodwind instrument, part of the clarinet family.
9 Letters
SAXOPHONE: A member of the woodwind family, typically made of brass and played with a single-reed mouthpiece.
10 Letters
TAMBOURINE: A percussion instrument consisting of a shallow drumhead with pairs of jingles around the edge.
More About "crossword clue instrument"
"Instrument" is a versatile and common crossword clue that can refer to a variety of things, not just musical devices. While musical instruments like the piano, guitar, or drum are frequently the intended answer, the clue can also lead to words like "tool" (as in a surgical instrument), "deed" (as in a legal instrument), or even "means" (as in an instrument of change). Crossword constructors love this versatility to add a layer of challenge, often requiring solvers to consider the broader definitions of words.
The key to deciphering "instrument" lies in the context provided by other clues in your puzzle. The number of letters, intersecting words, and any additional descriptors in the clue itself (e.g., "stringed instrument," "tool for surgery") will guide you to the correct solution. Always consider synonyms and related concepts when the obvious musical answer doesn't fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "instrument," always think beyond the most common interpretation. It could be a musical device, a tool, or even a legal document.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by intersecting words are your best friends. They'll quickly narrow down the possibilities and confirm if your chosen "instrument" fits.
- Look for Specific Qualifiers: If the clue specifies "woodwind instrument" or "percussion instrument," it significantly narrows your options. Pay close attention to these small details.
- Note Letter Count: The exact number of letters required is crucial. Use it to eliminate answers that are too short or too long immediately.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'instrument' refer to in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'instrument' most commonly refers to a musical device like a PIANO or GUITAR. However, it can also refer to a tool (e.g., surgical instrument), a legal document (e.g., deed, will), or even a means to an end (e.g., 'instrument of change'). The surrounding clues are crucial for context.
How can I tell if the crossword clue 'instrument' refers to a musical instrument or something else?
Pay attention to the clue's wording and other intersecting words. If the clue has a musical qualifier like 'stringed instrument' or 'woodwind,' it's clear. If it's simply 'instrument,' check the number of letters and how it fits with existing letters from intersecting clues. A hint about 'tool' or 'document' would indicate a non-musical answer.
Are there common instrument-related terms or types often found in crosswords?
Yes, common musical instruments like PIANO, GUITAR, FLUTE, DRUM, and VIOLIN are frequent answers. Less common ones like OBOE, LUTE, or HARP also appear. Sometimes, parts of instruments (e.g., REED, KEY) or categories (e.g., BRASS, PERCUSSION) might be clued as 'instrument type' or similar.