furtive crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "furtive crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "furtive crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SLY: Acting in a sneaky or cunning manner.
6 Letters
SECRET: Kept hidden or not generally known.
COVERT: Not openly acknowledged or displayed; secret.
8 Letters
STEALTHY: Characterized by caution and secrecy, especially in movement.
11 Letters
CLANDESTINE: Kept secret or done secretively, especially because illicit.
13 Letters
SURREPTITIOUS: Performed, made, or acquired by secret means; sly.
More About "furtive crossword clue"
"Furtive" is a fascinating word often found in crosswords, directly relating to actions or characteristics that are secretive, stealthy, or done in a way to avoid notice. When encountering this clue, think about synonyms that imply hidden motives, quiet movements, or things kept under wraps. The word itself comes from the Latin 'furtivus', meaning "stolen" or "secret," derived from 'fur', meaning "thief."
In crosswords, the nuance of "furtive" can range from a simple synonym like "sly" to more elaborate terms like "clandestine" or "surreptitious." Pay close attention to the number of letters required and any intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities. Sometimes, the clue might be accompanied by an indicator of movement ("furtive glance" leading to "SNEAKY") or a state of being ("furtive behavior" leading to "SECRETIVE").
Understanding the core meaning of "furtive" – an attempt to be unnoticed – is key to unlocking its answers. It often points to a sense of evasion, privacy, or even dishonesty, providing a rich pool of potential solutions for puzzle constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of boxes provided. This is your first and most crucial hint. A three-letter word for "furtive" will be very different from an eleven-letter one.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "furtive," brainstorm as many synonyms as you can (secret, sneaky, hidden, sly, covert). Sometimes, thinking of antonyms (open, public) can also spark an idea.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them! They can eliminate many possibilities and confirm others, turning a challenging clue into an easy fill.
- Think About Context: While "furtive" implies secrecy, consider if the puzzle setter is hinting at a specific type of furtiveness (e.g., a "furtive look" vs. a "furtive plan").
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "furtive" mean in a crossword context?
Furtive generally means secretive, sneaky, or done in a way that avoids notice. In crosswords, clues using "furtive" often lead to answers like SLY, SECRET, STEALTHY, or COVERT, all implying hidden actions or intentions.
How can I identify a "furtive" answer in a crossword?
Look for synonyms of secrecy, stealth, or slyness. Consider the letter count and any intersecting letters. Words like "secret," "covert," "hidden," "unseen," or "clandestine" are strong indicators. The clue might also imply a "shifty glance" or "stolen moment."
Are there common word lengths for "furtive" answers?
Answers for "furtive" can vary widely in length, from short words like SLY (3 letters) to longer ones like STEALTHY (8 letters) or even SURREPTITIOUS (13 letters). Always consider the available spaces and other intersecting words.