longing crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the "longing crossword puzzle clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "longing crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
YEN: A strong desire or craving, often for something specific.
4 Letters
PINE: To feel a deep desire or longing, often with a sense of sadness.
5 Letters
YEARN: To have an intense feeling of longing for something, especially for something lost or unattainable.
7 Letters
CRAVING: An intense, urgent, or abnormal desire or longing.
9 Letters
HANKERING: A strong or persistent desire or longing for something.
NOSTALGIA: A sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past.
More About "longing crossword puzzle clue"
"Longing" is a classic crossword clue that evokes feelings of desire, yearning, and often a touch of nostalgia. Its abstract nature means it can have a wide range of synonyms, making it a versatile clue for puzzle constructors. From simple three-letter words like YEN to more complex terms such as HANKERING or NOSTALGIA, the answer often depends on the available letters in the grid and the specific nuance the constructor is aiming for.
When you encounter "longing" in a crossword, think about the intensity of the desire, whether it's a general wish or a specific craving, and if it relates to the past. Common themes associated with "longing" include homesickness, wistfulness, or a simple strong wish for something tangible or intangible. Checking the letter count and surrounding letters is crucial to pinpoint the correct solution among its many synonyms.
Puzzle setters often use "longing" to test a solver's vocabulary depth, particularly around synonyms for desire and yearning. Paying attention to any additional words in the clue, like "for home" or "past," can further narrow down the possibilities. This clue can appear in various difficulty levels, from daily quick crosswords to more complex cryptic puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Word Lengths: Always start by looking at the number of letters required. "Longing" could be a 3-letter word like YEN or a 9-letter word like NOSTALGIA. The length is your primary filter.
- Context is Key: While "longing" is a standalone clue, other clues might have qualifiers like "longing (for something lost)" or "longing (for a specific item)." These modifiers provide crucial context.
- Think Synonyms and Nuances: Brainstorm words that mean "desire," "yearn," "crave," or "pine." Consider the subtle differences in meaning. Is it a gentle wish or an intense craving?
- Check Intersecting Letters: Once you have a few letters from crossing words, test your potential "longing" answers against them. This is often the quickest way to confirm or rule out a word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "longing" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "longing" typically refers to a strong desire, yearning, or craving for something or someone. It can also imply a wistful affection for the past, such as nostalgia.
Are there common synonyms for "longing" used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include YEN, PINE, YEARN, CRAVING, HANKERING, and NOSTALGIA. The specific answer depends on the letter count and surrounding clues.
How do I find answers for abstract clues like "longing"?
For abstract clues, consider various synonyms across different letter counts. Look for clues that might provide a more specific context (e.g., "longing for home"). Use intersecting letters from other solved clues to narrow down possibilities.