presidential also ran crossword – 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 "presidential also ran crossword," designed to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "presidential also ran crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GORE: Refers to Al Gore, who served as Vice President and ran for president in 2000, losing the electoral college vote despite winning the popular vote.
5 Letters
PEROT: Refers to Ross Perot, a prominent independent candidate who ran for president in 1992 and 1996, famously not winning the election.
8 Letters
DEFEATED: A direct and common term for someone who ran for office but did not win, fitting the 'also-ran' description perfectly.
More About "presidential also ran crossword"
The term "presidential also-ran" in a crossword clue refers to any individual who has sought the highest office in the United States but failed to secure the presidency. This can encompass a wide range of figures, from those who lost a general election to those who couldn't even clinch their party's nomination during the primary season. Crossword setters love these clues because they tap into general knowledge of American history and politics, often looking for specific names or general terms describing electoral defeat.
Historically, many significant political figures have been "also-rans," shaping the political landscape even in defeat. Their campaigns, ideas, and impact on elections can be substantial, influencing debates and policy for years to come. Think of the third-party candidates who never stood a chance of winning but dramatically altered the outcome by drawing votes from major parties, or popular figures who just couldn't quite reach the White House.
When solving this type of clue, consider the era hinted at by the puzzle or the notoriety of the individual. Some "also-rans" are household names (like Al Gore or Ross Perot), while others might be more obscure figures known only to history buffs. The number of letters is always your best guide, narrowing down the possibilities significantly and helping you pinpoint the exact answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Research Historical Figures: For clues involving historical or political terms, a quick mental scan of prominent figures who fit the description (e.g., famous presidents, generals, or unsuccessful candidates) can often lead to the answer.
- Consider Synonyms for Loss: If the clue implies failure or not winning, brainstorm synonyms like DEFEATED, LOSER, or terms associated with electoral defeat.
- Pay Attention to Letter Count: The number of letters provided for the answer is your most powerful hint. Use it to eliminate possibilities and confirm your guesses.
- Look for Specifics vs. Generals: Sometimes the clue wants a general term (like 'DEFEATED'), other times a specific name (like 'PEROT'). The surrounding letters or other clues can help clarify which is needed.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'presidential also-ran' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, a 'presidential also-ran' typically refers to any individual who ran for the U.S. presidency but was ultimately unsuccessful in winning the election. This can include candidates who lost in the general election, or even those who sought their party's nomination but failed to secure it. The clue focuses on the outcome of their presidential ambitions.
Can the answer to 'presidential also ran' be a specific person's name?
Absolutely! Many crossword clues for 'presidential also ran' will look for the name of a prominent historical figure who fits this description. For instance, candidates like Ross Perot, Al Gore (in terms of the ultimate outcome), or even lesser-known figures who made an unsuccessful bid for the highest office. Always consider specific names if the letter count fits.
What strategies help solve clues about historical or political figures?
When encountering clues about historical or political figures, consider the era, specific events, or the role they played. For 'also-rans,' think of well-known individuals who ran for president but didn't win. Checking the number of letters is crucial, and sometimes the clue might hint at their party affiliation, a specific election year, or a particular aspect of their campaigns.