fingers not crossed crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to the definitive guide for the crossword clue 'fingers not crossed'! Here, you'll find all possible answers, comprehensive explanations, and insights to help you solve your puzzle with ease. We've compiled solutions across various letter counts to ensure you find exactly what you need.
Solutions for "fingers not crossed crossword" by Letter Count
6 Letters
HONEST: Implying sincerity and truth, the opposite of keeping fingers crossed for deceit or luck.
CANDID: Direct, frank, and open, without hidden intentions or wishes.
8 Letters
STRAIGHT: Referring to being honest, truthful, or direct, without subterfuge.
More About "fingers not crossed crossword"
The phrase 'fingers not crossed' typically refers to a state of being honest, straightforward, or genuine, without any hidden agenda or wishful thinking. In the context of crosswords, clues like this often play on idiomatic expressions, challenging solvers to think beyond the literal meaning. While 'crossing fingers' usually implies hoping for good luck or sometimes even deceit (as in 'crossing my fingers behind my back'), the negation 'not crossed' suggests candor and transparency.
When you encounter such a clue, consider antonyms of the common idiom. What is the opposite of hopeful anticipation or concealed intent? Words related to truthfulness, directness, and sincerity are usually good candidates. Crossword setters love to use these kinds of nuanced phrases to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of English idioms. Look for words that signify openness, a lack of pretense, or a clear declaration of fact.
Understanding the subtle nuances of such phrases is key to mastering crosswords. 'Fingers not crossed' moves beyond the simple act of hoping; it delves into the realm of character and intention. It asks you to consider a state where one is not relying on luck or a secret wish, but rather facing reality directly and perhaps even bravely.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Deconstruct Idioms: For clues like 'fingers not crossed', break down the idiom. What does 'fingers crossed' mean? What does 'not' do to that meaning? Then, brainstorm synonyms for the resulting concept.
- Consider Context: Always look at surrounding letters and clues. The theme of the puzzle or intersecting words can often provide critical hints to narrow down the possible answers.
- Think Synonyms & Antonyms: For abstract clues, consider a wide range of synonyms for the implied meaning and antonyms for the literal phrase. 'Fingers crossed' implies hope/deceit; 'not crossed' implies honesty/truth.
- Use Letter Count Strategically: If you have multiple possible answers, the exact letter count is your most reliable filter. Double-check your chosen word fits precisely.
- Don't Be Afraid to Leave & Return: If a clue stumps you, move on to others. Filling in more letters elsewhere can often reveal the answer to a previously challenging clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'fingers not crossed' imply in a crossword?
It typically implies a state of being honest, sincere, direct, or straightforward, as opposed to hoping for a specific outcome or being deceitful (which 'fingers crossed' can sometimes suggest).
How do I approach idiomatic crossword clues?
Break down the idiom's common meaning, then consider the impact of any negations or modifiers. Brainstorm synonyms for the derived concept, often focusing on abstract nouns or adjectives that describe states of being.
Why do crosswords use phrases instead of single words for clues?
Phrase clues, especially idioms, add complexity and richness to puzzles. They test a solver's understanding of idiomatic English and ability to think figuratively, making the solving process more engaging and challenging.