Who was William Shakespeare?

William Shakespeare was an English playwright, poet, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world's pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England's national poet and the 'Bard of Avon'.

Why is 'Shakespeare' a common crossword answer?

Shakespeare is a common crossword answer due to his universal recognition and the distinct length of his name, which fits well into various puzzle grids. His works, characters, and the era he lived in also provide rich material for related clues.

What are some other common crossword clues related to playwrights?

Besides Shakespeare, common playwrights found in crosswords include Arthur Miller, Eugene O'Neill, Tennessee Williams, George Bernard Shaw, and Henrik Ibsen, among many others. Clues often refer to their famous works or nationalities.

playwright william crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "playwright william", you've come to the right place. We provide accurate, quick answers and helpful explanations to get you back on track.

Solutions for "playwright william crossword clue" by Letter Count

11 Letters

SHAKESPEARE: The most renowned English playwright, poet, and actor, William Shakespeare.

More About "playwright william crossword clue"

The clue "playwright william" almost universally points to one of the most significant figures in English literature: William Shakespeare. Born in Stratford-upon-Avon, England, in 1564, Shakespeare's vast body of work includes approximately 39 plays, 154 sonnets, and several other poems. His plays are translated into every major living language and are performed more often than those of any other playwright.

His enduring legacy is a testament to his profound understanding of human nature, his mastery of language, and his ability to craft stories that resonate across centuries. From tragedies like "Hamlet" and "Romeo and Juliet" to comedies like "A Midsummer Night's Dream" and historical plays such as "Henry V," Shakespeare's influence on literature, theatre, and culture is immeasurable.

When you encounter this clue in a crossword, you can be highly confident that SHAKESPEARE is the intended answer. Its consistent letter count of 10 letters makes it a perfect fit for many grids, and his prominence ensures that puzzlemakers often feature him.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Leverage Common Knowledge: Many crossword clues, especially those about famous historical figures or common phrases, rely on general knowledge. If a name or concept seems overly familiar, it's often a direct answer.
Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters. For "playwright william," knowing the answer is 10 letters (SHAKESPEARE) immediately confirms or denies potential solutions. This is a critical cross-referencing step.
Look for Context Clues: Sometimes, surrounding clues or letters already filled in can give you hints. If you have "S_A_E_P_A_E" already, it becomes much easier to deduce "SHAKESPEARE."
Don't Be Afraid to Google (Strategically): If completely stuck, a quick search for "[clue] crossword" can provide a hint. However, try to solve as much as you can independently first to improve your skills.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any other common answer for "playwright william"?

While William Shakespeare is overwhelmingly the most common and intended answer, some obscure or niche crosswords might allude to other playwrights named William. However, in mainstream puzzles, SHAKESPEARE is the definitive solution.

What if the clue specifies a different William playwright?

If the clue includes additional descriptors, such as "American playwright William" (which might point to William Saroyan or Tennessee Williams, depending on the full clue and letter count for Tennessee Williams whose real name was Thomas Lanier Williams), then the answer would change. Always read the full clue carefully.

How can I improve my knowledge of common crossword answers like this?

Solving crosswords regularly is the best way to build your internal database of common answers, patterns, and categories. Pay attention to frequently recurring names, places, and terms, especially those in the arts and history.