slippery crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "slippery" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide solutions for all lengths, along with explanations to help you understand the context and improve your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "slippery crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ICY: Covered in ice, making it very slippery.
4 Letters
OILY: Having a slick, greasy texture, often causing slipperiness.
5 Letters
SLICK: Smooth, glossy, and often slippery to the touch.
6 Letters
GREASY: Covered in grease or oil, resulting in a slippery surface.
7 Letters
ELUSIVE: Difficult to find, catch, or achieve, often used metaphorically for something 'slippery'.
More About "slippery crossword clue"
The term "slippery" in crosswords can be a delightful and sometimes frustrating clue, as it often boasts both literal and figurative interpretations. Literally, it refers to surfaces or objects that offer little friction, making them hard to grip or stand on. Think of ice, oil, or wet surfaces. Common answers reflecting this literal meaning include ICY, OILY, SLICK, and GREASY.
Figuratively, "slippery" can describe something difficult to grasp, understand, or control. This might apply to an argument, a concept, or even a person who is hard to pin down or evade. For example, a "slippery" character might be ELUSIVE or TRICKY. Pay close attention to the context of the clue to discern which meaning is intended, as this will guide you to the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always read the full clue. Is it talking about a physical surface or an abstract idea? Words like "like ice," "oiled," or "hard to catch" give vital clues.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the same as "slippery" (slick, greasy, treacherous) or their opposites, which sometimes appear in 'not slippery' type clues.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters provided for the answer is your most powerful hint. If you have a few options, this will narrow it down quickly.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a tricky clue in isolation. Once you have a few intersecting letters from other answers, the correct "slippery" word often becomes clear.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'slippery' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'slippery' can refer to something literally providing little grip (like ice or oil), or metaphorically difficult to grasp, pin down, or trick (like an elusive person or concept). Always consider both literal and figurative meanings.
Are there common word lengths for answers to 'slippery' clues?
Answers to 'slippery' clues can vary widely in length, but common solutions often fall between 3 and 7 letters, including words like ICY, OILY, SLICK, GREASY, and ELUSIVE. The length hint in the puzzle is crucial.
How can I distinguish between literal and metaphorical 'slippery' clues?
Look for accompanying words in the clue. Phrases like 'like a fish,' 'on ice,' or 'greased' usually point to a literal slipperiness. Clues with terms like 'hard to catch,' 'evasive,' or 'tricky' suggest a metaphorical meaning.