ill-gotten gains crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're struggling with the clue "ill-gotten gains," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "ill-gotten gains crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LOOT: Refers to goods, especially money or valuables, obtained illegally or by force, often during war or a riot.
5 Letters
BOOTY: Goods or property seized by force or plunder, commonly associated with pirates or wartime spoils.
6 Letters
SPOILS: Goods or advantages gained from a particular situation or person, often through illicit means or conquest.
7 Letters
PLUNDER: Valuables and goods stolen during wartime or through similar forcible means, often implying a large quantity.
10 Letters
BLACKMONEY: Money earned illegally, typically undeclared to tax authorities, fitting the 'ill-gotten' aspect perfectly.
More About "ill-gotten gains crossword clue"
"Ill-gotten gains" is a common phrase describing wealth or property acquired through dishonest, unethical, or illegal means. In crosswords, clues relating to this phrase often test your vocabulary for synonyms of theft, corruption, and illicit acquisition. Understanding the nuances between words like "loot," "booty," and "spoils" can be key to selecting the correct answer based on the context or number of letters.
The concept spans various scenarios, from petty theft to large-scale financial fraud or the spoils of war. Crossword constructors love this phrase because it allows for a wide range of answers that all fall under the umbrella of dishonestly acquired wealth. Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue that might hint at the specific nature of the 'gains,' such as 'pirate's collection' or 'war prizes'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Words like "ill-gotten" often suggest answers with negative connotations. Consider words associated with crime, deception, or force.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: This is paramount! The exact number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. If you have several possible answers, the length will narrow it down quickly.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you've filled in intersecting words, use those confirmed letters as hints. They can reveal part of the "ill-gotten gains" answer, making it easier to deduce the full word.
- Think of Contextual Synonyms: Sometimes the clue hints at a specific type of 'ill-gotten gains,' e.g., 'pirate's share' (BOOTY) or 'wartime haul' (PLUNDER). Broaden your thinking beyond direct synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "ill-gotten gains" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "ill-gotten gains" typically refers to money or goods acquired through illegal or immoral means, such as theft, fraud, or bribery. The answers often relate to terms for stolen goods or illicit wealth.
Are there common synonyms for "ill-gotten gains" in puzzles?
Yes, common crossword synonyms include terms like LOOT, BOOTY, SPOILS, PLUNDER, or even more general terms like DIRTYMONEY or CONTRABAND, depending on the letter count.
How can understanding word origins help solve clues like this?
Understanding the origins of words like "gains" (profit, acquisition) combined with "ill-gotten" (unlawfully acquired) helps narrow down the semantic field. This allows you to think of words specifically related to illicit acquisition.