near crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "near" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and finish your puzzle with ease. Let's find your solution!
Solutions for "near crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NIGH: An archaic but common crossword answer meaning 'near' or 'at hand', often referring to time.
NEXT: Directly following in order or place; very near in sequence or position.
5 Letters
CLOSE: At a short distance or interval; very near in space or relationship.
ABOUT: Approximating; near to in number, time, or degree (e.g., 'about fifty').
6 Letters
ALMOST: Very nearly; all but; close to being complete or true.
AROUND: In the vicinity; near by, often implying general proximity rather than exact location.
7 Letters
CLOSEBY: Near in position or time; easily accessible.
8 Letters
ADJACENT: Next to or adjoining something else, sharing a border or common point.
INTIMATE: Close in relationship or familiarity, as in 'near and dear' friends.
9 Letters
PROXIMATE: Closest in relation; immediate; near, often used in a formal or legal context (e.g., proximate cause).
More About "near crossword clue"
The clue "near" is a cornerstone of crossword puzzles due to its remarkable flexibility and the extensive array of synonyms it possesses. This seemingly simple word can refer to various forms of proximity: spatial (like "close" or "adjacent"), temporal (as in "almost" or "nigh," meaning soon), or even abstract relationships. Crossword constructors frequently leverage this versatility, making "near" a popular clue that can lead to answers of diverse lengths and linguistic nuances, often challenging solvers to discern the precise context implied by the clue or the surrounding grid.
Mastering the different interpretations of "near" can significantly enhance your puzzle-solving efficiency. For example, an archaic or poetic tone in a clue might point directly to "NIGH," while a more formal or scientific context could suggest "PROXIMATE." It's also vital to pay attention to the grammatical role of "near" in the clue—whether it's functioning as an adjective, adverb, or even a verb (as in "to draw near"). This multi-dimensional quality makes clues involving "near" an excellent mental exercise for any crossword enthusiast looking to sharpen their skills.
Many of the common answers for "near" are what veteran solvers refer to as "crosswordese" – words that appear with high frequency in puzzles due to their convenient letter patterns or common usage within specific, often archaic, contexts, even if they are less common in everyday conversation. 'NIGH' is a prime example of such a word. Familiarizing yourself with these recurring words and their typical clues can provide a substantial advantage when tackling future crosswords, making once-challenging clues quickly solvable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brainstorm Synonyms Broadly: For clues like "near," don't just think of obvious synonyms. Expand your mental dictionary to include archaic terms (NIGH), formal words (PROXIMATE), and words implying temporal or relational closeness (ALMOST, INTIMATE).
- Utilize Letter Count First: The number of letters in the answer slot is your most concrete hint. Eliminate answers that don't fit the length immediately. If you have a 5-letter space for "near," 'CLOSE' or 'ABOUT' are strong candidates, whereas 'NIGH' (4 letters) is not possible.
- Analyze Clue Context: Look for any additional words, punctuation, or implied context in the clue. "Near (archaic)" explicitly points to NIGH. "Near miss" suggests a specific meaning of ALMOST. The puzzle's theme or other solved entries can also provide crucial hints.
- Familiarize Yourself with "Crosswordese": Words that frequently appear in puzzles, often due to their useful letter patterns, are known as "crosswordese." 'NIGH' is a classic example for "near." Learning these common puzzle terms will make many clues instantly recognizable.
For more advice and to sharpen your solving skills, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common short answers for 'near' in crosswords?
Common short answers for 'near' include 'NIGH' (4 letters), 'NEXT' (4 letters), and 'CLOSE' (5 letters). 'NIGH' is a particular favorite for constructors due to its archaic nature and frequent appearance in puzzles.
How does the word 'near' function as a clue in crosswords?
'Near' can function as an adjective (e.g., 'A near miss'), an adverb (e.g., 'Draw near'), or a preposition (e.g., 'Near the house'). The precise role in the clue often gives hints about the expected answer's part of speech or nuance, guiding you to the correct synonym.
Are there specific types of 'near' clues beyond physical proximity?
Yes, 'near' can also imply proximity in time ('near future'), approximation ('near enough'), or even a close relationship ('near and dear'). Always consider these broader contexts and look for subtle hints within the clue to determine the exact meaning required for the answer.