crossword obscure – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions and explanations for the clue "crossword obscure", you've come to the right place. Our comprehensive guide offers answers for various word lengths, helping you complete your puzzle with ease and even learn new vocabulary.
Solutions for "crossword obscure" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RARE: Not commonly encountered, fitting an 'obscure' definition.
6 Letters
ARCANE: Mysterious or secret, understood by few.
8 Letters
ESOTERIC: Intended for or understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge, highly relevant to 'obscure'.
9 Letters
RECONDITE: Little known or abstruse, very fitting for an obscure crossword answer.
More About "crossword obscure"
The term "obscure" in a crossword clue points to a fascinating aspect of puzzle design: the deliberate use of less common words or meanings to challenge solvers. These clues often require a deeper dive into vocabulary, general knowledge, or even specialized fields like history, mythology, or literature. An "obscure" clue isn't necessarily unfair; rather, it’s a test of a solver's breadth of knowledge and their ability to think creatively about word associations.
Identifying an obscure clue usually means the answer isn't immediately obvious from everyday language. It might be an archaic term, a scientific name, a geographical location not widely known, or even a foreign word integrated into English. Crossword constructors love these words because they can unlock intricate letter patterns and provide a satisfying "aha!" moment when finally deciphered.
Mastering obscure clues often involves building a strong mental lexicon and familiarizing oneself with common crosswordese – a collection of words that frequently appear in puzzles due to their convenient letter patterns or versatile meanings, even if they are less common in daily conversation. Persistent exposure to crosswords helps train your brain to anticipate and recognize these challenging entries.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly read widely across different genres. News articles, classical literature, and even encyclopedias can expose you to a broader range of words, including those that might appear as "obscure" clues.
- Look for Common Crosswordese: Many seemingly obscure words appear repeatedly in crosswords (e.g., OLEO, EPEE, ETUI). Learning these common crossword terms can significantly speed up your solving process.
- Utilize Cross-References: If an obscure clue is proving difficult, focus on solving its intersecting words first. The letters provided by already solved answers can dramatically narrow down the possibilities for the obscure word, turning a daunting task into a deductive challenge.
- Don't Be Afraid to Guess Strategically: Sometimes, even with a strong vocabulary, you might need to make an educated guess, especially when only one or two letters are missing. Consider common letter patterns and word endings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'obscure' mean in a crossword clue?
In a crossword, 'obscure' often refers to a word that is rarely used, specialized, or not commonly known. These words can be challenging but rewarding to solve, testing the solver's vocabulary depth.
How do I find answers to obscure crossword clues?
To solve obscure clues, focus on synonyms, wordplay, and specific areas of knowledge (e.g., mythology, Latin, literature). Sometimes, the obscurity lies in the definition itself, requiring a deep dive into lesser-known meanings of common words. Don't hesitate to use cross-references with other solved clues.
Are obscure words common in crosswords?
Yes, many crosswords, particularly those designed for experienced solvers or with a 'tough' rating, frequently feature obscure words. They are a classic element used to increase difficulty and reward solvers with a broad vocabulary.