fingers crossed crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "fingers crossed," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, along with explanations to help you understand the context and improve your crossword-solving skills for next time.
Solutions for "fingers crossed crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HOPE: To desire with expectation of fulfillment; a synonym for the sentiment behind crossing fingers.
WISH: To want something to happen or be true; often used interchangeably with 'hope' in this context.
6 Letters
PRAYER: An earnest hope or wish, often invoked with the gesture of fingers crossed.
8 Letters
OPTIMISM: A hopeful and confident attitude about the future or the successful outcome of something.
8 Letters
GOODLUCK: A common expression or wish for someone to have a favorable outcome, often accompanied by the "fingers crossed" gesture.
More About "fingers crossed crossword clue"
"Fingers crossed" is a widely recognized idiom, signifying a wish for good luck or a hopeful anticipation of a positive outcome. The gesture itself, crossing one's index and middle fingers, is believed to bring good fortune or ward off bad luck, particularly when telling a white lie. Its roots are thought to extend back to early Christian times, where the cross symbol was used for protection, or even further to pagan beliefs about unity and power within a group.
In the realm of crosswords, this clue is a favorite due to its idiomatic nature, allowing for a range of answers that express similar sentiments like 'hope', 'wish', 'optimism', or 'good luck'. The challenge for solvers often lies in determining the exact synonym or related concept that fits the required letter count of the puzzle. Understanding such common phrases and their nuances is key to mastering these types of clues.
When you encounter such clues, think about not just direct synonyms but also the emotional state or desired result implied by the phrase. This broader perspective can help unlock trickier answers and deepen your appreciation for the cleverness of crossword constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Nuance: For idiomatic clues like "fingers crossed," think about the various feelings or actions associated with the phrase (e.g., hope, desire, superstition).
- Letter Count is King: Always use the given letter count as your primary filter. If 'hope' is 4 letters, and your slot is 8, you know 'hope' isn't the direct answer, but 'optimism' might be.
- Look for Related Concepts: Sometimes the answer isn't a direct synonym but a closely related concept or result. For "fingers crossed," 'goodluck' is a desired outcome, not just a feeling.
- Practice Common Idioms: Familiarize yourself with frequently used English idioms and their meanings. Many crosswords rely on this knowledge.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "fingers crossed" mean in simple terms?
"Fingers crossed" is an idiom that means you are hoping for good luck or a successful outcome for something.
Are crossword clues always direct synonyms?
No, crossword clues are not always direct synonyms. They can be puns, anagrams, cryptic definitions, or refer to idioms, specific knowledge, or even parts of words. Always be prepared for multiple layers of meaning!
How can I find answers to very obscure crossword clues?
For obscure clues, try breaking down the clue into parts, looking for hidden words, or considering different meanings of each word. If still stuck, online crossword solvers, specific dictionaries, or even a quick search for the clue itself can provide hints or solutions. Don't be afraid to use resources to learn new words or concepts!