intimates crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "intimates crossword clue," helping you complete your puzzle with ease and expand your vocabulary.
Solutions for "intimates crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PALS: An informal term for close friends or companions, fitting the 'friends' meaning of intimates.
5 Letters
HINTS: To suggest something indirectly or subtly, aligning with the 'suggests' meaning of intimates.
7 Letters
BUDDIES: Another common informal word for close friends, often used for male companions.
IMPLIES: To strongly suggest the truth or existence of something not expressly stated, similar to 'hints'.
10 Letters
CONFIDANTS: Individuals with whom one shares secrets or private matters, emphasizing trust and closeness.
More About "intimates crossword clue"
"Intimates" is a fascinating crossword clue because it showcases one of the most common techniques used by puzzle setters: ambiguity and double meanings. The word "intimates" can refer to close friends or trusted companions (as in "my closest intimates") or it can mean to hint or suggest something subtly (as in "she intimates that she's leaving"). This duality means you need to pay close attention to the word count and any intersecting letters to determine the correct answer.
When you encounter "intimates" in a crossword, always consider both possibilities. If the answer length is short, words like PALS or HINTS are likely candidates. For longer answers, think of words like BUDDIES, IMPLIES, or CONFIDANTS. The beauty of such clues lies in their ability to make you think creatively about the English language and its many shades of meaning.
Understanding these linguistic nuances is key to becoming a proficient crossword solver. Clues like "intimates" test not just your vocabulary but also your ability to infer context and explore synonyms for different definitions of a single word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Always Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, like "intimates," have more than one definition. If your first thought doesn't fit the letter count or cross with other answers, consider alternative meanings.
- Use Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it fits with letters from other solved clues. If an answer doesn't work, it's probably wrong.
- Look for Part of Speech Clues: Sometimes the clue's phrasing indicates if the answer is a noun, verb, or adjective. "Intimates" could be a noun (friends) or a verb (suggests), so look for subtle grammatical cues.
- Think About Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords often rely on your knowledge of synonyms. For verbs, consider different ways to express the action. For nouns, think about related concepts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'intimates' in crosswords?
The clue 'intimates' commonly refers to two main meanings: either close friends/confidants or to hint/suggest something. Crossword setters often use this ambiguity to create challenging clues.
How can I distinguish between the two meanings of 'intimates'?
To distinguish, first check the letter count of the required answer. Then, use intersecting letters from other clues. The overall theme of the puzzle or the specific phrasing of other clues might also provide context.
Are there other words with multiple crossword meanings like 'intimates'?
Yes, many words in crosswords have multiple meanings. Common examples include 'bank' (river bank vs. financial institution), 'park' (to stop a vehicle vs. a public green space), and 'lead' (a metal vs. to guide). Always consider different definitions.