What is a 'stage whisper' in theatre?

A stage whisper is a dramatic device where an actor speaks loudly enough for the audience to hear, but supposedly in a whisper that other characters on stage cannot. It's a theatrical convention, often used for comedic effect or to reveal private thoughts.

Why is 'ASIDE' a common crossword answer for 'stage whisper'?

ASIDE is a very common answer because it perfectly describes the dramatic technique of speaking to the audience or oneself, usually in a manner that sounds like a whisper to other characters but is clear to the audience. It directly relates to the 'stage' and 'whisper' aspects of the clue.

Are there other theatrical terms often used in crosswords?

Yes, crosswords frequently use theatrical terms. Examples include ACT, SCENE, PROPS, CUE, ROLE, ARIA, SOLILOQUY, MONOLOGUE, and DIRECTOR. Understanding common dramatic conventions can often help solve such clues.

stage whisper crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find the most comprehensive solutions for the clue "stage whisper crossword clue", along with detailed explanations and helpful tips to master your next puzzle.

Solutions for "stage whisper crossword clue" by Letter Count

5 Letters

ASIDE: A theatrical term for a remark or passage by a character in a play that is intended to be heard by the audience but unheard by the other characters in the play.

9 Letters

SOTTOVOCE: An Italian musical or theatrical term meaning 'under the voice' or in a very quiet tone, similar to a whisper, often used for dramatic effect.

More About "stage whisper crossword clue"

The term "stage whisper" itself is an interesting paradox, as a whisper is typically meant to be unheard by others, while a stage whisper is specifically designed to be heard by the audience, despite being in a hushed tone. This dramatic convention is a staple in plays, allowing characters to share private thoughts, humorous asides, or plot details directly with the audience without breaking the flow of the scene for other characters.

In crosswords, clues like "stage whisper" often point to words that describe theatrical techniques or terms related to speech and performance. "ASIDE" is by far the most common and direct answer, perfectly encapsulating the concept. Understanding the nuances of such terms not only helps solve puzzles but also enriches one's general knowledge of theatre and language.

The beauty of such clues lies in their ability to test your vocabulary across different domains, from everyday language to specialized jargon. Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they can be concise yet evoke a rich meaning, leading to elegant and satisfying solutions.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider the Context: For clues involving specific fields like theatre, think about related vocabulary. If the clue has "stage," "play," "actor," or similar words, you're likely looking for a theatrical term.
Look for Synonyms and Related Concepts: A "stage whisper" is essentially a spoken thought that others don't hear. Brainstorm words like "secret," "private," or "aside."
Count the Letters Carefully: Always verify the number of letters in your potential answer. This is the most crucial step to ensure your solution fits the grid.
Think About Wordplay: Sometimes, clues hint at a literal interpretation ("whisper on a stage") and other times a more figurative or technical one (like "ASIDE" being a specific theatrical device).

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'sottovoce' mean in a crossword context?

Sottovoce is an Italian term meaning 'under the voice' or in a quiet tone. While more common in music, it can appear in crosswords related to hushed speech or quiet delivery, fitting the 'whisper' aspect of the clue.

How can I improve my theatrical vocabulary for crosswords?

Reading about theatre history, specific plays, or even looking up definitions of terms found in play scripts can significantly boost your theatrical vocabulary. Many online resources and theatre glossaries are available.

Are crossword answers always single words?

Not always. While many answers are single words, some can be two-word phrases (e.g., "ON STAGE") or even abbreviations. Always check the clue's number of letters against the expected answer, including spaces if applicable (though spaces are usually not counted in the stated letter count for the grid).