peripheral crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for "peripheral crossword clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "peripheral crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
OUTER: Referring to something situated on the outside or surface.
6 Letters
FRINGE: The outer, marginal, or extreme part of an area, group, or sphere of activity.
8 Letters
EXTERNAL: Relating to the outside or outer part.
MARGINAL: Pertaining to or situated at the edge or margin.
9 Letters
ANCILLARY: Providing necessary support to the primary activities or operation, often implying a less central role.
More About "peripheral crossword clue"
"Peripheral" in a crossword puzzle often serves as a straightforward indicator for words describing the edge, exterior, or something secondary in importance. Unlike clues that rely on wordplay or anagrams, "peripheral" usually requires a direct synonym or a closely related concept. Understanding its various shades of meaning—from literal spatial positioning to figurative less central roles—is key to unlocking the correct answer.
When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a general knowledge crossword, where a simple synonym like OUTER or EXTERNAL might suffice? Or is it a more advanced puzzle, potentially requiring a nuanced term like ANCILLARY or a word that describes a less significant aspect of something? The length of the answer slot is also a critical hint, narrowing down the possibilities significantly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For direct clues like "peripheral," always start by brainstorming synonyms. Words like 'outer,' 'edge,' 'border,' 'external,' 'secondary,' and 'minor' are excellent starting points.
- Consider Word Length: The number of letters in the answer slot is your most powerful guide. If the clue has a 5-letter answer, you won't be looking for 'ANCILLARY' (9 letters).
- Check Cross-References: If you've filled in some intersecting words, use those letters as a scaffold. They can often reveal the correct 'peripheral' answer by process of elimination.
- Explore Nuances: Sometimes "peripheral" can mean "less important" rather than just "on the edge." If spatial words don't fit, think about terms indicating a supportive or secondary role.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "peripheral" mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, "peripheral" typically refers to something on the edge, outside, or of secondary importance. Common answers might include words like OUTER, EXTERNAL, MARGINAL, or FRINGE. It often hints at an answer that means 'not central' or 'on the border'.
How can I identify "peripheral" answers quickly?
Look for synonyms related to 'edge,' 'outer limits,' 'secondary,' or 'minor.' Consider the number of letters in the answer slot – shorter words like OUTER or EDGE, or longer ones like EXTERNAL or ANCILLARY, are common. The context of surrounding clues can also provide hints.
Are there other common clues related to "outer" or "edge"?
Yes, many. Clues like "Outer limits," "Bordering," "On the side," "Fringe benefit," or "External part" often lead to similar answers. Words like BRIM, VERGE, BOUNDARY, or even just EDGE are frequent solutions to such clues.