lacking originality crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "lacking originality," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "lacking originality crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TRITE: Overused and consequently of little import; lacking originality or freshness.
BANAL: So lacking in originality as to be obvious and boring.
9 Letters
HACKNEYED: (Of a phrase or idea) lacking significance through having been overused; unoriginal and trite.
10 Letters
UNORIGINAL: Not original; derivative or imitative.
11 Letters
COMMONPLACE: Not unusual; ordinary, therefore often lacking in originality.
More About "lacking originality crossword clue"
The clue "lacking originality" is a common phrase in crosswords, often pointing towards concepts of staleness, predictability, or lack of creative thought. It challenges solvers to think of synonyms for words like 'mundane', 'uninspired', or 'conventional'. Understanding the nuances of such terms is key to cracking the puzzle.
Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they allow for a variety of answers depending on the specific shade of meaning and the available letter count. From a simple 'TRITE' to a more descriptive 'HACKNEYED', the answer always revolves around the absence of novelty or freshness. It’s a classic example of how crosswords test your vocabulary breadth, particularly with synonyms and antonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check intersecting letters: If multiple answers fit a clue (like TRITE and BANAL for 5 letters), use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues to confirm the correct word.
- Consider the constructor's style: Some puzzles prefer more common words, while others might lean towards more obscure or formal synonyms. If you're consistently seeing certain types of answers, stick with that pattern.
- Think of antonyms: Sometimes, breaking down a clue like "lacking originality" by first thinking of its opposite (original, unique, fresh) can help you brainstorm words that describe the *lack* of those qualities.
- Don't be afraid to guess: If you have a strong contender and the intersecting letters make sense, try filling it in. You can always erase it if it proves wrong, but it might unlock other parts of the puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'lacking originality' mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, 'lacking originality' typically points to words that describe something uninspired, overused, or cliché. Common answers include synonyms for stale, boring, or derivative, such as TRITE, BANAL, or HACKNEYED.
Are there different answers for 'lacking originality' based on word length?
Yes, absolutely. Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers depending on the number of letters required. For 'lacking originality', you might find short answers like TRITE (5 letters) or BANAL (5 letters), or longer solutions like UNORIGINAL (10 letters) or COMMONPLACE (11 letters).
How can I figure out if the answer is TRITE or BANAL if both are 5 letters?
When multiple answers fit the letter count, look at the intersecting letters from other clues. The letters that cross with 'TRITE' or 'BANAL' will determine which word is correct. Also, consider the overall theme or specific publication's typical vocabulary.