merciful crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're searching for solutions to the "merciful crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by their letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "merciful crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KIND: Showing kindness; compassionate.
7 Letters
LENIENT: Mild, tolerant, or merciful in temper or judgment.
PITYING: Feeling or showing pity.
9 Letters
FORGIVING: Ready and willing to forgive.
13 Letters
COMPASSIONATE: Feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others.
More About "merciful crossword clue"
"Merciful" is a common adjective in crossword puzzles, often acting as a straightforward prompt for synonyms. The core meaning revolves around showing compassion, kindness, or leniency, particularly when one has the power to inflict harm or punishment. This broad definition allows for a range of answers, from simple, direct synonyms to more nuanced terms depending on the specific puzzle's difficulty and wordplay.
When encountering "merciful" in a clue, solvers should consider the various contexts in which mercy can be applied. It might describe a person's character (e.g., KIND), an action (e.g., FORGIVING), or a general disposition (e.g., LENIENT). The subtle differences between these synonyms are often what crossword setters use to differentiate between possible answers of similar lengths.
Understanding these subtle variations can be key to unlocking the correct solution. For instance, a clue might emphasize the 'giving of mercy' (FORGIVING), or the 'gentle nature' (LENIENT), rather than just the general attribute. Always cross-reference with surrounding letters and consider the overall theme or tone of the puzzle to narrow down your options effectively.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For clues like "merciful," immediately think of as many synonyms as possible. List them out and see which ones fit the letter count.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your most important clue. Only consider words that precisely match the required length.
- Use Context Clues: Look at other filled-in letters in the grid. Even one or two confirmed letters can significantly narrow down the possibilities for a "merciful" word.
- Consider Nuances: Some synonyms for "merciful" might fit better depending on the exact phrasing of the clue. Is it about a person, an action, or a result?
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword setters use less common synonyms or a different part of speech. Don't be afraid to think outside the box once common answers are exhausted.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'merciful' typically imply in crossword clues?
'Merciful' in crossword clues usually points to synonyms related to showing kindness, forgiveness, compassion, or leniency. It can refer to a disposition, an action, or a state of being that involves pity or clemency. Common answers will often be direct synonyms like KIND, GENTLE, or FORGIVING.
Are there common alternative word forms or concepts for 'merciful' in crosswords?
Yes, beyond direct synonyms, clues might hint at the opposite (e.g., 'not merciful' leading to CRUEL or HARSH), or concepts closely associated with mercy such as PARDON, CLEMENCY, or GRACE. Sometimes, the clue might focus on the *absence* of harshness rather than the presence of explicit mercy.
How can I approach a 'merciful' clue if I'm stuck?
If you're stuck on 'merciful', consider the number of letters you need and brainstorm synonyms. Think about words that describe a kind, forgiving, or gentle person or action. Also, look at surrounding letters in the grid; they can often confirm a partially formed word. Don't forget to consider less common synonyms if the standard ones don't fit.