faux pas crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "faux pas" for your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "faux pas crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SLIP: A minor or careless mistake, often used informally for a faux pas.
5 Letters
GAFFE: A social error or awkward act; a blunder. This is a very common answer for "faux pas".
ERROR: A mistake; something incorrectly done, which can encompass a social misstep.
7 Letters
BLUNDER: A careless or embarrassing mistake, often referring to a significant faux pas.
MISSTEP: An act or a decision that is a mistake, often a social one.
8 Letters
SOLECIZM: A breach of etiquette or good manners, often referring to a grammatical error or a social faux pas.
More About "faux pas crossword clue"
The term "faux pas" is a French loanword that literally translates to "false step." In English, it refers to an embarrassing social mistake or a breach of etiquette. It's a popular clue in crosswords because it evokes a clear concept but has several synonyms across various lengths, making it versatile for puzzle constructors.
When you encounter "faux pas" in a crossword, the most probable answers are those that directly mean a social blunder or mistake. The context of the puzzle, such as other clues or the general theme, can sometimes hint at which specific synonym is intended. Always consider the letter count first, as it's the most definitive way to narrow down the options.
Understanding the nuances between terms like 'gaffe', 'blunder', and 'misstep' can also be helpful. While all denote a mistake, a 'gaffe' often implies an unintentional verbal or social slip, a 'blunder' a more significant, potentially serious error due to carelessness, and a 'misstep' a general error in judgment or action.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always start by noting the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial step in eliminating incorrect possibilities for "faux pas" and any other clue.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Fill in any letters from intersecting words. These confirmed letters can quickly reveal the correct "faux pas" answer, especially when multiple options of the same length exist (e.g., BLUNDER and MISSTEP).
- Consider Nuance: While "faux pas" generally means a mistake, some synonyms might fit more perfectly depending on the overall tone or specific context of the puzzle. Think about whether a formal or informal synonym is required.
- Don't Be Afraid to Guess (Strategically): If you're down to a few options and have some intersecting letters, make an educated guess. If it doesn't work out, you'll quickly know and can try another.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "faux pas" mean in a crossword?
"Faux pas" is French for "false step" and refers to an embarrassing social mistake or blunder. In crosswords, it commonly clues words like GAFFE, BLUNDER, or MISSTEP.
Are there common synonyms for "faux pas" in crosswords?
Yes, besides direct translations, common synonyms that appear in crosswords for "faux pas" include ERROR, SLIP, and BOO-BOO, depending on the letter count and the specific nuance required by the puzzle setter.
How can I identify the correct "faux pas" answer in a crossword?
To identify the correct answer, always look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you've already filled in. The most common answers are GAFFE (5 letters) and BLUNDER (7 letters). Sometimes, the context from other clues or the puzzle's theme can also help narrow down the options.