portend a good outcome crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "portend a good outcome crossword," designed to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "portend a good outcome crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BODE: To be an omen of a particular outcome. Often used with "well" to indicate a positive prediction.
5 Letters
AUGUR: To foreshadow a future event or outcome. Similar to bode, often used with "well" when the outcome is good.
7 Letters
PROMISE: To give a strong indication of a future event or outcome, especially a favorable one. For example, "The clear skies promise good weather."
More About "portend a good outcome crossword"
The clue "portend a good outcome" guides solvers to look for words that signify a positive or favorable future. The core of the clue is "portend," which means to be a sign or warning of something. When combined with "a good outcome," it specifically narrows down the meaning to positive omens or predictions.
Crossword constructors often use phrases like this to test a solver's vocabulary around synonyms and contextual nuances. Words like BODE and AUGUR are classics because they inherently carry the meaning of foretelling, and are frequently paired with "well" to imply a positive result, even if the word itself is presented in isolation as the answer.
Understanding the subtle differences between these words can be key. While 'BODE' and 'AUGUR' are more about indicating a future event, 'PROMISE' directly suggests a favorable expectation. Always consider the exact number of letters required and any crossing letters you already have to pinpoint the precise answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always break down the clue into its core components. For "portend a good outcome," identify "portend" as the verb for foretelling and "good outcome" as the specific qualifier for the type of foretelling.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: If you're stuck, brainstorm synonyms for "portend" (e.g., foresee, foreshadow, predict, hint) and then filter them by those that specifically imply a positive result.
- Check Word Lengths: Don't try to force a 7-letter answer into a 4-letter slot. The provided letter count is your best friend in narrowing down options.
- Use Cross-References: If you have a few letters from crossing words, use them to eliminate possibilities or confirm your hunches. This is often the fastest way to solve trickier clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of "portend" in crosswords?
"Portend" means to be a sign or warning that something, especially something momentous or calamitous, is likely to happen. In crosswords, it often points to words like BODE, AUGUR, or FORETELL, depending on whether the outcome is good or bad.
How can I identify answers related to good outcomes in crosswords?
Look for words that imply positive foreshadowing or indicators. Common synonyms for 'portend' when combined with 'a good outcome' include words like AUGUR WELL (though typically just AUGUR in a single-word answer), BODE WELL (similarly, BODE), PROMISE, or in some contexts, HARBINGER (if it signifies something positive approaching). The context of the clue, specifically 'good outcome,' is crucial for narrowing down the possibilities.
Are there common word lengths for "portend a good outcome" answers?
Answers can vary in length. For instance, 'BODE' is 4 letters, 'AUGUR' is 5 letters, and 'PROMISE' is 7 letters. Always consider the provided letter count in the puzzle to narrow down possibilities, as the same concept can often be expressed with words of different lengths.