minute crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "minute" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. This versatile word can mean both extremely small and a unit of time, making it a common challenge in puzzles. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "minute crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TINY: Referring to something very small in size, as in a minute particle.
NANO: A prefix meaning extremely small, often used in scientific contexts to denote something minute.
5 Letters
SMALL: Denoting something of restricted size, another common interpretation of 'minute' when it means tiny.
MICRO: Extremely small, serving as a prefix often indicating minute size.
TEENY: An informal term for something very small or tiny, aligning with the "minute" (small) meaning.
6 Letters
MOMENT: A very brief period of time, directly referencing the temporal meaning of 'minute'.
LITTLE: Of small size, quantity, or extent, often used synonymously with minute.
PETITE: (Of a woman) attractively small and dainty, another way to describe something minute in stature.
7 Letters
TRIVIAL: Of little value or importance, often associated with something minute or insignificant.
INSTANT: A particular moment or point in time, similar to the temporal meaning of 'minute'.
More About "minute crossword clue"
The word "minute" is a fantastic example of a homograph in the English language, meaning it's spelled the same but has different pronunciations and distinct meanings. In crosswords, this duality is frequently exploited by constructors to create clever and sometimes challenging clues. When pronounced "MY-noot," it refers to something exceedingly small or precise. When pronounced "MIN-it," it denotes a unit of time, equal to sixty seconds.
Understanding this linguistic quirk is key to mastering puzzles that feature this clue. A constructor might hint at the 'small' meaning with phrases like "barely perceptible" or "tiny detail," while the 'time' meaning could be clued with terms like "short while" or "sixty seconds." Always consider the context and the number of letters required for your answer, as this will often guide you to the correct interpretation and solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: For clues like "minute," always look at surrounding clues for thematic hints. If the puzzle has a science theme, "minute" might refer to something microscopic. If it's about schedules, it's likely a unit of time.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is a crucial indicator. "TINY" (4 letters) and "MOMENT" (6 letters) are both plausible for "minute" but only fit specific lengths.
- Consider All Meanings: If your initial thought for a clue like "minute" doesn't fit, don't just move on. Think about all possible definitions, including less common or archaic ones, and try to match them with the given letter count and existing crossing letters.
- Use Crossing Letters: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They can quickly eliminate incorrect answers or confirm the right one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I determine if 'minute' refers to size or time in a crossword?
The context of the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme often provides hints. For example, if other clues are about measurements, it might be size. If they're about durations, it's likely time. Also, check the letter count and try both interpretations. Crossword constructors love to play on these dual meanings.
Are there other words with dual meanings common in crosswords?
Yes, many words have multiple meanings that crossword constructors love to exploit. Examples include 'bank' (river or money), 'lead' (metal or to guide), 'crane' (bird or machine), and 'sole' (fish or unique). Always consider all possible meanings when stuck.
What if none of the common answers for 'minute' fit my puzzle?
Consider synonyms that might be less obvious, or think about more obscure, less common definitions of 'minute'. Also, double-check the given letters in your grid; sometimes a single correct crossing letter can unlock the solution. Don't be afraid to use a thesaurus or a crossword dictionary for less common synonyms.