familiar plot device crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions for the clue "familiar plot device crossword," organized by word length to help you quickly complete your puzzle. Dive into explanations and tips to sharpen your crossword skills!
Solutions for "familiar plot device crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TROPE: A common or overused theme, motif, or device in storytelling. It's a foundational element that readers and viewers often recognize across different works.
6 Letters
CLICHE: A phrase, idea, or plot device that has been used so often that it is no longer interesting or effective. It often lacks originality and can feel uninspired.
9 Letters
MACGUFFIN: An object or device in a movie or a book that serves merely as a trigger for the plot. Its specific nature is often unimportant; its purpose is to drive the story forward and motivate characters.
10 Letters
RED HERRING: Something, especially a clue, that is or is intended to be misleading or distracting. Often used in mysteries to divert attention from the real solution or culprit.
More About "familiar plot device crossword"
A "familiar plot device" refers to a technique or narrative element that writers frequently employ to advance their stories. These devices, while sometimes seen as unoriginal due to their widespread use, are often fundamental building blocks of storytelling. Understanding them not only helps in appreciating literature and film but also provides a significant advantage in solving crosswords.
The beauty of such a clue in a crossword puzzle lies in its ability to have multiple valid answers depending on the context or the available letters. From the broad 'TROPE' and 'CLICHE' to more specific concepts like 'MACGUFFIN' or 'RED HERRING,' each answer points to a distinct, yet common, method writers use to shape their narratives. Recognizing these different facets of storytelling is key to cracking such clues.
For crossword enthusiasts, clues related to literary or film concepts are quite common. Familiarity with terms from narrative theory can often provide that 'Aha!' moment. By exploring these plot devices, you not only improve your crossword acumen but also deepen your understanding of how stories are constructed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "familiar plot device," think about all possible interpretations. Could it refer to a general storytelling convention, a specific object, or a narrative trick?
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is your most powerful filter, narrowing down possibilities immediately.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting words. Even one letter can often confirm a suspected answer or rule out others.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes the most common answer isn't the one. Brainstorm synonyms or related concepts that fit the clue and the letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'plot device' in literature?
A plot device is any technique or element used by a writer to advance the storyline, introduce new information, or resolve conflicts. These can include objects, characters, or specific narrative structures designed to serve the plot's progression.
How do common plot devices typically appear in crossword clues?
Crossword clues for plot devices often refer to their function or a specific, well-known example. Clues might be 'Storytelling convention,' 'Literary contrivance,' 'Narrative trick,' or even direct references to classic devices like 'Deus ex machina.' Recognizing these common terms helps in solving.
Why are some plot devices considered 'familiar' or overused?
Plot devices become 'familiar' or 'overused' when they are deployed repeatedly across numerous stories, leading them to be predictable or stereotypical. While still effective tools, their frequent appearance can make them feel unoriginal, often leading to them being labeled as clichés or tropes.