ferret out crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find the most accurate and comprehensive answers for the clue "ferret out crossword," along with explanations to help you understand the solution and improve your puzzle-solving skills. Get quick help for all word lengths.
Solutions for "ferret out crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FIND: To discover or locate something, often after a search or effort. This is a common and direct synonym for ferreting out.
5 Letters
GLEAN: To gather information or material piece by piece, often with effort or from various sources. It implies a painstaking process of discovery, much like ferreting out.
7 Letters
UNEARTH: To find something hidden or forgotten by digging it out, either literally from the ground or metaphorically from obscurity. This strongly aligns with the investigative nature of "ferret out."
More About "ferret out crossword"
"Ferreting out" is an idiomatic expression that evokes the image of a ferret, a small, lithe animal known for its ability to go into burrows and flush out prey. In human terms, it describes the act of diligently searching, investigating, or uncovering something that is hidden, elusive, or difficult to find. This could apply to information, facts, secrets, or even physical objects.
In the context of crosswords, clues like "ferret out" often require a nuanced understanding of synonyms for discovery, investigation, and revelation. The answers can vary widely in length and connotation, from simple acts of finding to more complex processes of research or detective work. Recognizing the core meaning of persistent searching is key to unlocking these types of clues.
Common crossword setters love these types of clues because they can draw upon a rich lexicon of words related to discovery. The exact answer will often depend on the number of letters provided and the intersecting letters, guiding you to the most appropriate synonym.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all synonyms: For verbs like "ferret out," think broadly about all possible ways to "find" or "discover" something. Include synonyms for investigation, exposure, and revelation.
- Check word length carefully: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If "FIND" is too short, expand your synonym search to longer words like "UNEARTH" or "DISCOVER."
- Look at intersecting letters: Don't try to solve a clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are vital for confirming or narrowing down your options. If you have an 'N' in the third position, "FIND" becomes a strong candidate.
- Think figuratively and literally: Many crossword clues play on the dual meanings of words. "Ferreting out" can be literal (digging something up) or figurative (uncovering a secret).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve my vocabulary for crosswords?
To improve your crossword vocabulary, read widely, use a thesaurus regularly, and make a habit of looking up unfamiliar words you encounter. Practice with daily crosswords and review common crosswordese terms.
What is the best way to start a difficult crossword puzzle?
Start by scanning all the clues and solving the ones you know immediately, especially short, obvious answers. Then, look for intersections where letters can help you solve adjacent clues. Don't be afraid to move around the grid and come back to tougher clues later.
Why is the phrase 'ferret out' commonly used in crosswords?
The phrase 'ferret out' is popular in crosswords because it succinctly describes the act of diligently searching and discovering something, often something hidden or elusive. This allows for a variety of synonyms of different lengths, providing setters with flexible options for their grids.