predicament crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "predicament", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by their letter count, along with brief explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's solve this!
Solutions for "predicament crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FIX: A difficult or awkward situation; a plight.
JAM: A difficult situation; a predicament.
4 Letters
BIND: A difficult or awkward situation.
MESS: A state of confusion or disorder; a difficult situation.
6 Letters
PLIGHT: A dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation.
SCRAPE: An awkward or difficult situation, often one that one has got into in a foolish or careless way.
CRISIS: A time of intense difficulty, trouble, or danger.
7 Letters
DILEMMA: A situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, especially equally undesirable ones.
TROUBLE: Difficulty or problems.
8 Letters
QUANDARY: A state of perplexity or uncertainty over what to do in a difficult situation.
9 Letters
TIGHTSPOT: A difficult or awkward situation.
SITUATION: A set of circumstances in which one finds oneself; a state of affairs, often implying difficulty.
10 Letters
DIFFICULTY: The state or condition of being difficult.
More About "predicament crossword puzzle clue"
The word "predicament" refers to a difficult, unpleasant, or embarrassing situation. In crosswords, it's a popular clue because it has a rich set of synonyms that vary significantly in length and nuance, offering setters many ways to challenge solvers. From a quick three-letter "FIX" to a more elaborate eight-letter "QUANDARY," the range of answers reflects the diverse contexts in which one might face a predicament.
Understanding the subtle differences between terms like "dilemma" (implying a tough choice) and "plight" (suggesting a unfortunate state) can often be the key to cracking the clue. Crossword compilers meticulously select these synonyms to fit specific letter counts and intersecting words, making 'predicament' a versatile and intriguing clue for both beginners and seasoned solvers.
When you encounter 'predicament' in a puzzle, consider the surrounding letters and the overall theme of the crossword to pinpoint the exact synonym intended by the setter. The context often provides critical hints beyond just the definition itself.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always begin by noting the required number of letters. For "predicament," this immediately helps you narrow down possibilities from short answers like FIX to longer ones like QUANDARY.
- Consider Nuance: Predicament can mean different things (a tough choice, a sticky situation, a general difficulty). Think if the surrounding words or theme give a hint about the specific type of predicament.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: If you have a few letters, consider common prefixes (e.g., 'UN-' for uncertain) or suffixes (-TION for SITUATION) that might fit. This can sometimes unlock longer answers.
- Use Cross-References: Don't get stuck on one clue. Solve easier intersecting clues first. The letters they reveal can often make a "predicament" clue suddenly obvious.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'predicament' in crosswords?
While answers vary by puzzle, common short answers include 'FIX' or 'JAM'. For longer clues, 'PLIGHT' or 'DILEMMA' are very frequently seen due to their direct synonymy with 'predicament'.
How can the word length help in solving 'predicament'?
The number of letters is crucial! Knowing the exact length immediately narrows down possibilities. For example, if it's a 3-letter word, you might think of 'FIX' or 'JAM'. If it's 7 letters, 'DILEMMA' is a strong candidate, while 8 letters points to 'QUANDARY'.
Are there different shades of meaning for 'predicament' that appear in crossword clues?
Yes, 'predicament' can range from a minor 'scrape' or 'bind' to a more serious 'crisis' or 'dilemma'. Crossword setters often play on these nuances. A clue might hint at the severity or type of difficulty, guiding you to a specific synonym.