pawn crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on "pawn crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you moving forward in your puzzle.
Solutions for "pawn crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HOCK: To give something valuable as security for a loan. Often used synonymously with 'pawn'.
PEON: A low-ranking person or worker, similar to a pawn in the sense of being of little value or easily controlled.
TOOL: A person who is used or manipulated by another, acting as their 'pawn' to achieve goals.
6 Letters
PLEDGE: To deposit something as security for a debt or promise, which is the core action of pawning an item.
7 Letters
SOLDIER: A common piece in chess, often referred to as a pawn, given its role in advancing and protecting.
8 Letters
CHESSMAN: A general term for any piece used in the game of chess, which includes the pawn, the most numerous piece.
More About "pawn crossword clue"
"Pawn" is a fascinating and versatile word in crosswords, often appearing with multiple meanings. Its most common association is with the game of chess, where a pawn is the smallest and most numerous piece, known for its specific movement and promotion potential. This can lead to answers like CHESSMAN, PEON, or even SOLDIER, drawing parallels to its role on the board.
Beyond chess, "pawn" also refers to the act of leaving an item as security for a loan, a practice often associated with a 'pawn shop'. Clues here might lead to answers such as HOCK or PLEDGE. Understanding this financial context is key to unlocking many clues.
Finally, "pawn" can metaphorically describe a person who is manipulated or used by others, a 'tool' or a 'dupe' in a larger scheme. This broader, figurative meaning adds another layer of complexity and potential answers, requiring solvers to consider the clue's nuance carefully.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always remember that common words like "pawn" often have multiple definitions. If one meaning doesn't fit the letter count or crossing letters, try another.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your best friend. Use it to narrow down possibilities quickly. For "pawn," a 4-letter answer could be HOCK, while an 8-letter answer might be CHESSMAN.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Crossword answers interlock. If you have a few letters from a crossing word, it can significantly help confirm or rule out potential solutions for "pawn."
- Think Synonyms and Analogies: For words like "pawn," think about what it represents: a small piece, security, a person being used. Brainstorm synonyms for these concepts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary meanings of 'pawn' in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'pawn' commonly refers to three main concepts: a chess piece (e.g., PEON, CHESSMAN), the act of leaving an item as security for a loan (e.g., HOCK, PLEDGE), or a person used by another (e.g., DUPE, TOOL).
How does the length of the answer affect solutions for 'pawn'?
The number of letters is a crucial hint. Shorter answers like HOCK (4 letters) or PEON (4 letters) might point to the act of pawning or a low-ranking person. Longer answers like CHESSMAN (8 letters) or FOOTSOLDIER (11 letters) could specify the chess piece or a more descriptive metaphor.
Are there common alternative wordplay angles for 'pawn'?
Yes, 'pawn' might be clued through wordplay such as phonetic similarities (e.g., 'PAW-N'), or by referencing its role as 'lowest rank,' 'first move,' or 'expendable asset.' Consider synonyms for these concepts.