opposite crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "opposite crossword 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 guide you.
Solutions for "opposite crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FOE: A common short word meaning an adversary or opponent, fitting the "opposite" theme in terms of conflict.
5 Letters
POLAR: Often used to describe things that are diametrically opposed, like "polar opposites."
RIVAL: One who is in competition or conflict with another, acting as an opposing force.
7 Letters
ADVERSE: Meaning unfavorable or opposing, often used in contexts like "adverse conditions" or "adverse reaction."
INVERSE: The exact opposite or reverse of something, especially in mathematical or logical contexts.
REVERSE: To turn in the opposite direction or order, or the opposite side or position.
8 Letters
CONTRARY: Opposite in nature, direction, or meaning; often implies a stubborn opposition.
10 Letters
ANTITHESIS: The direct opposite of someone or something, often used for a striking contrast.
More About "opposite crossword clue"
The clue "opposite" is a staple in crossword puzzles for good reason. It’s a versatile word that can lead to a wide array of answers, ranging from direct antonyms to words implying an adversary, a contrasting direction, or a conceptual inversion. Crossword setters love it because it tests a solver's ability to think broadly about word relationships and context.
When you encounter "opposite" in a clue, don't just think of a single antonym. Consider if the puzzle might be looking for a word that signifies an opposing force (like FOE or RIVAL), a reversal of direction (REVERSE), a logical counterpoint (INVERSE or ANTITHESIS), or even a metaphorical opposite (POLAR). The specific nuance often depends on the letter count and any already-filled letters in the grid.
Paying close attention to the number of letters required is crucial, as many words can fit the general meaning of "opposite." By using our list above, you can quickly narrow down the possibilities and confidently complete your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: For clues like "opposite," think beyond simple antonyms. Could it mean an adversary, a reversal, or a logical counterpoint? The context of the puzzle can be key.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate potential answers. This is especially helpful when multiple words fit the initial clue.
- Brainstorm Synonyms & Antonyms: Even for an "opposite" clue, quickly listing words related to "opposite" or words that are opposites of common concepts can spark the correct answer.
- Look for Clue Specifics: Sometimes, the clue might include a subtle hint, such as "Opposite of up (4)" implying DOWN, or "Opposite side (5)" for FAR.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are 'opposite' clues so common in crosswords?
Clues involving 'opposite' are highly prevalent because they test a solver's vocabulary depth, understanding of synonyms and antonyms, and ability to infer context. They can refer to direct antonyms, directional opposites, or conceptual contrasts, providing a wide range of possible answers for setters.
What's the difference between an antonym clue and a general 'opposite' clue?
An 'antonym' clue specifically asks for a word with the exact opposite meaning (e.g., 'Hot's opposite'). A general 'opposite' clue is broader and might imply an adversary, a reverse action, a contrasting idea, or a direct antonym, depending on the puzzle's specific context and the available letters.
How do I choose the correct 'opposite' word when there are several options of the same length?
When faced with multiple answers of the same length, consider the surrounding letters already filled in the grid. Also, think about the puzzle's theme, if any, and the specific nuance of the clue. Sometimes, one 'opposite' word fits a more formal or informal context than another.