loan shark crossword puzzle – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the "loan shark crossword puzzle" clue? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "loan shark crossword puzzle" by Letter Count
6 Letters
USURER: A person who lends money at excessively high-interest rates, often illegally.
7 Letters
SHYLOCK: A character from Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice', famously associated with harsh moneylending and often used in crosswords to refer to a demanding lender.
12 Letters
EXTORTIONIST: One who obtains money or property through force or threats, a common method employed by loan sharks.
More About "loan shark crossword puzzle"
The term "loan shark" in a crossword puzzle typically refers to an illicit moneylender who preys on individuals desperate for funds, charging exorbitant interest rates that are far beyond legal limits. These individuals often use threats or violence to ensure repayment, making them a dangerous and illegal part of the financial underworld. When this term appears in a crossword, the answers often revolve around synonyms for such a person, the act of their lending, or even well-known cultural references.
Common crossword answers for "loan shark" can range from direct synonyms like "USURER" to descriptive terms like "EXTORTIONIST" or even literary figures such as "SHYLOCK," who embodies the ruthless nature of such a lender. Understanding the various facets of what a loan shark represents – from the illegal practice of usury to their forceful collection methods – can greatly assist in solving the puzzle, as clues might hint at any of these aspects.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Context: For clues like "loan shark," think about direct synonyms (usurer), related illegal activities (extortion), or even literary figures (Shylock) that embody the concept.
- Check Letter Count Carefully: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This is crucial for narrowing down possibilities, especially when multiple words could fit the general meaning.
- Look for Cultural/Literary References: Crossword clues sometimes delve into literature, mythology, or popular culture. If a common synonym doesn't fit, consider if the clue alludes to a character or story known for the specific trait, like Shylock for a loan shark.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'loan shark' mean in a crossword puzzle context?
In crosswords, 'loan shark' typically refers to an individual who lends money at exorbitant rates of interest, often operating outside legal financial regulations. Answers often relate to terms like usury, illegal lending, or even specific character names associated with such practices.
Why is 'USURER' a common answer for loan shark clues?
'USURER' is a direct and formal term for someone who practices usury, which is the act of lending money at unreasonably high rates of interest, especially illegal rates. This makes it a perfect, concise synonym for 'loan shark' in many crossword puzzles.
Are there literary references for loan shark clues in crosswords?
Yes, 'SHYLOCK' from Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice' is a classic literary reference frequently used in crosswords. He is a Jewish moneylender known for demanding a 'pound of flesh' as collateral, embodying the harsh and unforgiving nature often associated with a loan shark.