crossword clue notorious – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving the trickiest crossword clues! If you're looking for answers to "notorious," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue notorious" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BAD: Often used as a short, direct answer for something that has a negative reputation, fitting the core meaning of notorious.
5 Letters
SHADY: Implies questionable honesty or reputation, which aligns well with being notorious for wrongdoing.
8 Letters
INFAMOUS: This is a direct and widely accepted synonym for notorious, meaning well-known for some bad quality or deed.
ILLFAMED: Another strong synonym, directly translating to having a bad reputation or being known negatively.
More About "notorious"
The word "notorious" describes someone or something widely known, but specifically for a negative quality, act, or reputation. Unlike "famous" which can be positive or neutral, "notorious" always carries a connotation of ill repute. For instance, a notorious criminal is well-known because of their crimes, not their heroic deeds.
In crosswords, clues like "notorious" test your vocabulary and your ability to distinguish between subtle shades of meaning. While "famous" might seem similar, the negative implication of "notorious" is key to finding the correct answer. Crossword setters often use such words to trick solvers into picking a more general synonym.
Understanding this distinction is crucial not just for this specific clue, but for approaching many other clues that rely on nuanced word meanings. Always consider the context and connotation a word carries, as it can be the difference between a blank square and a completed grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For words like "notorious," always identify if the word has a positive, negative, or neutral connotation. This helps narrow down synonyms significantly.
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a few potential synonyms, see which ones fit the available letter count in the grid. This is often the fastest way to confirm an answer.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Some words have very common crossword-specific synonyms. Over time, you'll learn these patterns. For "notorious," "INFAMOUS" is a classic.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on "notorious," try solving intersecting clues first. The letters you fill in from those can give you crucial starting points for the tougher clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'notorious' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'notorious' typically refers to someone or something famous or well-known, but for a negative reason. Common answers often include synonyms like INFAMOUS, ILL-FAMED, or even simpler terms like BAD or SHADY, depending on the letter count and surrounding clues.
How can I quickly find answers for 'notorious' in a crossword?
To quickly find answers, consider the number of letters required. Common lengths for 'notorious' might be 3 (BAD), 5 (SHADY), or 8 (INFAMOUS, ILLFAMED). Think of synonyms that carry a negative connotation. If you're stuck, use a crossword solver by inputting the clue and any known letters.
Are there other clues similar to 'notorious' I should know?
Clues related to reputation, fame, or infamy are common. Examples include 'well-known,' 'famous,' 'disreputable,' 'unscrupulous,' or 'wicked.' Always pay attention to the specific nuance of the clue (positive, negative, neutral) to narrow down your options.