folly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! You've landed on the definitive resource for the crossword clue "folly". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just curious about the various interpretations of this word, we provide comprehensive solutions categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the nuances of each answer.
Solutions for "folly crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERR: To make a mistake or be incorrect, which can be seen as a minor folly.
4 Letters
VICE: A moral failing or bad habit, often resulting from foolish choices or a lack of self-control.
5 Letters
ERROR: A mistake or a deviation from what is right or accurate, often a direct consequence of a foolish act.
CAPER: A playful, often mischievous or foolish, escapade or prank.
6 Letters
MADCAP: Wildly impulsive and reckless behavior, synonymous with a type of folly.
9 Letters
ABSURDITY: The quality or state of being ridiculous or wildly unreasonable, often stemming from a foolish action or idea.
10 Letters
IMPRUDENCE: The quality of being rash or not cautious; lacking wisdom, which is a key characteristic of folly.
11 Letters
FOOLISHNESS: The quality of being foolish; lack of good sense or judgment, a direct synonym for folly.
More About "folly crossword clue"
"Folly" is a rich word for crossword setters, offering multiple layers of meaning. Beyond its primary definition of foolishness or a lack of good sense, it can also refer to a specific type of ornamental building. These architectural follies were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, built for decoration rather than practical use, often mimicking ancient ruins or exotic structures. This duality means that a clue containing "folly" might require careful consideration of the puzzle's theme or other intersecting words.
When "folly" appears in a crossword, the context is everything. Is the clue hinting at a human characteristic, a mistake, or something more whimsical like an impulsive act? Or is it guiding you towards a historical or architectural term? Pay attention to any accompanying words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning, such as "architectural folly" or "act of folly." Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer from the various possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: For clues like "folly," always consider the broader context of the puzzle. Is it a historical, literary, or general knowledge crossword? This can help you determine if the clue refers to a foolish act or an architectural structure.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from other clues. The crossing letters are your best friends in narrowing down the possible answers for "folly" and confirming your choice.
- Consider Word Lengths: As demonstrated above, "folly" can have answers ranging from short (e.g., ERR) to long (e.g., FOOLISHNESS). Knowing the exact number of letters needed is vital for quickly eliminating incorrect options.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword setters love to use synonyms. If "folly" isn't immediately obvious, think of words with similar meanings (e.g., mistake, error, absurdity) or even antonyms that might be clued in an opposite way.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'folly' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'folly' often seen in crosswords include 'error', 'mistake', 'absurdity', 'madness', 'indiscretion', 'unwisdom', or 'goof'. The exact answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How does clue length affect answers for 'folly'?
The length of the required answer is crucial. Shorter answers might be 'ERR' or 'VICE', while longer ones could be 'FOOLISHNESS' or 'IMPRUDENCE'. Always check the number of boxes provided in the puzzle to narrow down possibilities.
Can 'folly' refer to a specific type of building in a crossword?
Yes, 'folly' can also refer to a costly, non-functional building constructed primarily for decoration, especially one in the style of an ancient temple or ruin. If the clue has a architectural or historical context, this meaning might be intended, rather than the more common meaning of foolishness.