enigma crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "enigma crossword clue", organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "enigma crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
PUZZLE: Something that is difficult to understand or explain, often causing one to think hard.
RIDDLE: A question or statement intentionally phrased so as to require ingenuity in ascertaining its answer or meaning.
SECRET: Something kept from the knowledge of others or not publicly known.
7 Letters
MYSTERY: A person or thing that is mysterious or difficult to understand.
9 Letters
CONUNDRUM: A confusing and difficult problem or question.
More About "enigma crossword clue"
"Enigma" is a captivating word, derived from Greek, meaning "to speak in riddles." In the realm of crosswords, it often serves as a flexible clue due to its rich array of synonyms. This makes it a favorite among constructors looking for a word that can lead to answers of various lengths, providing both a challenge and a sense of accomplishment for solvers.
Beyond its literal definition, 'enigma' can evoke a sense of intrigue and the unknown, which is why it's so fitting for crossword puzzles. Solvers must tap into their vocabulary and contextual understanding to deduce whether the puzzle is seeking a general mystery, a specific type of riddle, or perhaps something even more obscure. It's a prime example of how language itself can be a playground for the mind.
Understanding the core concept of 'enigma' as 'something puzzling' is key. From historical figures described as enigmas to everyday puzzling situations, the word's versatility ensures its continued presence in crosswords, challenging us to think beyond the obvious and explore the nuances of language.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always cross-reference your potential answer's length with the required letter count in the grid. Even a single letter off can throw off your entire solution.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: For clues like "enigma," brainstorm a wide range of synonyms. Think about the subtle differences between words like 'mystery,' 'riddle,' and 'conundrum' to find the best fit.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other solved clues can provide context for a tricky word. For instance, if the puzzle has a historical theme, "enigma" might refer to the Enigma machine.
- Check Wordplay: Be alert for potential wordplay. "Enigma" itself could be part of a pun or a broader cryptic clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best strategy when 'enigma' is a crossword clue?
When facing 'enigma' as a clue, consider synonyms like MYSTERY, PUZZLE, or RIDDLE first. Pay attention to the letter count required and any surrounding letters you might already have filled in. Also, look for any subtle nuances in the clue that might point to a specific type of enigma (e.g., 'a person of mysterious character').
Are there common alternative meanings for 'enigma' in crosswords?
While 'enigma' most commonly refers to something mysterious or puzzling, crosswords can sometimes use it more broadly to hint at anything difficult to understand, a secret, or even a deep question. Keep an open mind to less obvious synonyms that fit the letter count and context.
Why is 'enigma' a frequent crossword clue?
'Enigma' is a popular clue because it has several well-known synonyms (mystery, puzzle, riddle) that are also common crossword answers of varying lengths. This versatility makes it useful for constructors to fit into different grid patterns, offering solvers a good challenge with multiple plausible solutions to consider.