How many meanings does 'on' have in crosswords?

'On' is incredibly versatile in crosswords, often representing notions of position (upon, atop), status (active, operating), topic (about, concerning), time (at a specific date), or even progress (ongoing). Its multiple meanings make it a frequent and sometimes tricky clue.

What are common synonyms for 'on' in crossword clues?

Common synonyms for 'on' include 'upon', 'atop', 'about', 'concerning', 'active', 'operating', 'occurring', and 'present'. The specific context of the clue will determine which synonym is most appropriate.

Why is 'on' a challenging crossword clue?

The challenge of 'on' lies in its brevity and its numerous idiomatic uses. It can be a preposition, an adverb, or even part of a phrasal verb. Recognizing the specific sense intended by the puzzle setter requires careful consideration of the surrounding words and the overall theme.

on crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Stuck on the elusive "on crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all possible solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Whether you're looking for a short or long answer, we've got you covered.

Solutions for "on crossword clue" by Letter Count

2 Letters

AT: Often used to indicate position or location, similar to 'on', as in 'at the corner' or 'on the corner'.

3 Letters

UPO: An archaic or poetic form of 'upon', which is a direct synonym for 'on'. Found in older texts or specific crossword themes.

4 Letters

UPON: A very common synonym for 'on', meaning situated above and supported by, or at a particular time.

5 Letters

ABOUT: As in 'on a topic' or 'concerning'. For example, 'a book on history' means 'a book about history'.

6 Letters

ACTIVE: Describing something that is currently working or operating, as in 'the lights are on' or 'the machine is active'.

7 Letters

CURRENT: Referring to something happening now or in progress, aligning with 'on' as in 'the show is on at the moment' meaning 'the show is current'.

More About "on crossword clue"

The word "on" is a deceptively simple yet highly versatile term in the English language, making it a frequent and often challenging clue in crossword puzzles. Its brevity belies its numerous meanings, ranging from indicating physical position (as in 'on the table') to denoting a state of being (as in 'lights on' or 'on duty'). Crossword setters leverage this semantic richness, often using "on" to hint at synonyms like "upon," "active," "concerning," or even specific times or events.

Understanding the context is crucial when encountering "on" in a crossword. Is it part of a phrase? Does it refer to a topic? Is it an adverb describing an action? For instance, "on the move" might imply 'going', while "on the subject of" clearly points to 'about'. This linguistic flexibility requires solvers to think beyond the most obvious definitions and consider the full spectrum of its usage, including phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions.

Mastering clues related to "on" involves developing an ear for its subtle nuances. Pay attention to the letter count required, as shorter answers like "AT" or "UPO" (an archaic form of "upon") often appear, while longer ones might include "ACTIVE" or "CONCERNING." By recognizing these variations, you can significantly improve your ability to tackle puzzles featuring this ubiquitous little word.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Phrasal Verbs: "On" frequently appears in phrasal verbs (e.g., "turn on," "go on," "carry on"). If the clue seems to indicate an action, think about how "on" might complete a verb.
Look for Directional or Positional Cues: Many "on" clues relate to location or direction. Think of words like UPON, ATOP, or ABOVE if the clue implies being supported by or situated higher than something.
Think About Status or State: "On" can mean active, operational, or in progress. If the clue suggests a state of being, consider answers like ACTIVE or CURRENT.
Check for Context of Topic: When "on" is used in the sense of "about" or "concerning" (e.g., "a report on a subject"), words like ABOUT or CONCERNING are strong candidates.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "on" usually mean in crosswords?

"On" is a highly versatile clue, often meaning 'upon', 'about', 'active', 'operating', 'in progress', or 'at a specific time/location'. Its exact meaning depends heavily on the surrounding words in the clue.

Can "on" refer to a day of the week in crosswords?

Yes, absolutely. Just like in everyday language, "on" can specify a day or date, as in "on Tuesday" or "on the 15th." In crosswords, this might lead to answers related to time or specific events.

Are there any obscure meanings of "on" to watch out for?

While most meanings are common, some puzzles might use "on" in more archaic or less common phrasal verbs. For instance, "on" can sometimes relate to 'continuing' or 'progressing' (e.g., "on and on"). Always be prepared for a less obvious interpretation, especially in harder puzzles.