crossword clue spill the beans – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Here you'll find comprehensive answers and detailed explanations for the clue "spill the beans", designed to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue spill the beans" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BLAB: To talk carelessly or indiscreetly, often revealing secrets.
TELL: To communicate or disclose information, often something previously held secret.
6 Letters
REVEAL: To make known something that was previously secret or unknown.
7 Letters
DIVULGE: To make (private or sensitive information) known.
CONFESS: To admit or acknowledge that one has done something wrong or embarrassing, often a secret.
8 Letters
DISCLOSE: To make secret or new information known.
More About "crossword clue spill the beans"
"Spill the beans" is a common English idiom meaning to reveal a secret or to accidentally tell something that was supposed to be kept private. Its origin is debated, but one popular theory traces it back to ancient Greek voting, where beans were used to cast votes. If the jar of beans was 'spilled', the votes would be revealed prematurely.
In crosswords, this clue almost always requires a synonym for revealing, disclosing, or confessing. Puzzle constructors love using such idiomatic phrases as they allow for a wide range of possible answers depending on the required letter count, testing a solver's vocabulary and understanding of nuances.
Understanding the core meaning of the idiom is key to cracking this clue, rather than focusing on the literal act of spilling. Always think about words that mean 'to make known' when you encounter this phrase in a puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: When faced with an idiomatic clue like "spill the beans," always brainstorm synonyms for its core meaning (e.g., reveal, disclose, tell).
- Check Letter Count: The number of boxes in the grid is your best friend. Use it to filter potential answers that fit the clue's meaning.
- Consider Nuance: Sometimes, the clue might hint at *how* the beans were spilled (e.g., accidentally vs. intentionally), which can guide you to a more precise synonym.
- Leverage Crosses: Letters filled in from intersecting clues are invaluable. Use them to confirm or narrow down your options for "spill the beans."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "spill the beans" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "spill the beans" is an idiom that typically means to reveal a secret or disclose confidential information. The answers will be synonyms of 'reveal', 'confess', or 'disclose'.
Are there common synonyms for "spill the beans" used in crosswords?
Yes, common answers include TELL, REVEAL, DIVULGE, DISCLOSE, CONFESS, and BLAB. The correct answer depends on the number of letters required by the puzzle.
How can I identify the correct answer length for "spill the beans"?
The crossword grid itself will indicate the number of letters for the answer. If you have some letters already filled in, use those as clues to narrow down the possible synonyms that fit the length and existing letters.