group of quails crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "group of quails crossword puzzle clue," you've come to the right place. We provide the most accurate and common solutions along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "group of quails crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BEVY: While less common and often associated with other animals or birds like larks, 'bevy' can occasionally refer to a group of quails, especially in less strict or older crossword contexts.
5 Letters
COVEY: This is the most widely recognized and specific collective noun for a group of quails, and is almost certainly the answer your puzzle is looking for. A covey usually refers to a small, close-knit group of these ground-dwelling birds.
More About "group of quails crossword puzzle clue"
The collective noun for a group of quails is a fascinating piece of language that often appears in crossword puzzles. The term "covey" specifically refers to a small group of quails, typically found together on the ground. This particular collective noun highlights the social habits of quails, which prefer to stick together for safety and foraging.
Crossword setters love clues involving collective nouns for animals because they can be quite specific and sometimes surprising, testing the solver's general knowledge beyond common vocabulary. While "covey" is the primary answer, understanding that some puzzles might accept broader terms or less common alternatives like "bevy" can be helpful for seasoned solvers.
Knowing these precise terms not only helps in solving puzzles but also enriches one's understanding of the English language and the natural world. It's a testament to the richness of our vocabulary that distinct terms exist for different animal groupings.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Specific Collective Nouns: For animal group clues, always try to recall the most specific collective noun first (e.g., 'pride' for lions, 'school' for fish, 'covey' for quails).
- Consider Letter Count: If you have some letters filled in or know the word length, use it to narrow down possibilities. If 'COVEY' (5 letters) doesn't fit, think of alternatives like 'BEVY' (4 letters) if plausible.
- Look for Synonyms or Broader Terms: Sometimes a clue might have a less specific answer. For "group of quails," if a specific term doesn't fit, a general term like 'FLOCK' could be a possibility, though less likely.
- Utilize Cross-References: Don't forget that other clues in the puzzle can help you. Letters from intersecting words can reveal missing parts of your challenging answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common collective noun for quails?
The most widely accepted and specific collective noun for a group of quails is a 'covey.' This term is frequently encountered in both ornithological contexts and crossword puzzles.
Can 'bevy' also refer to a group of quails?
Yes, while 'covey' is preferred, 'bevy' can sometimes be used for a group of quails, especially in older texts or specific regional dialects. It's more commonly associated with larks or roe deer, but its use for quails is not incorrect.
Why are collective nouns popular in crossword puzzles?
Collective nouns are popular in crosswords because they are often unique, sometimes obscure, and can test a solver's knowledge of vocabulary and specific terminology, adding an interesting challenge.