useful crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your go-to source for solving even the trickiest crossword clues. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions for "useful crossword clue", organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "useful crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HANDY: Convenient to handle or use; practical.
UTILE: Serving a useful purpose, effective. (Often seen in more challenging or cryptic puzzles).
7 Letters
HELPFUL: Providing assistance or benefiting someone; useful.
9 Letters
PRACTICAL: Of or concerned with the actual doing or use of something, rather than with theory and ideas; useful.
11 Letters
SERVICEABLE: Usable or in good condition for use; fulfilling its function adequately.
More About "useful crossword clue"
The clue "useful" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary for synonyms. It's a broad term, which means the answer can vary greatly depending on the specific puzzle's theme, difficulty, and the number of letters required. Common answers gravitate towards words that imply functionality, convenience, or benefit, such as HANDY, HELPFUL, or PRACTICAL. However, expert solvers know to keep an eye out for less common or archaic terms like UTILE, which can add a layer of complexity to the clue.
When encountering "useful" in a crossword, always consider the surrounding letters you've already filled in. This context is invaluable for narrowing down the possibilities. For instance, if you have a five-letter word and the second letter is 'A', 'HANDY' becomes a strong contender. If it's a longer word, think about synonyms that imply a more formal or specific kind of utility, like SERVICEABLE. The beauty of such common clues lies in their versatility, requiring solvers to think expansively about related concepts.
Understanding the nuances of "useful" goes beyond simple synonyms; it's about grasping how functionality and practicality are expressed in different contexts. A tool might be 'useful' if it's handy, while advice might be 'useful' if it's practical. This multi-faceted nature makes "useful" a consistent and engaging crossword clue that demands both linguistic flexibility and strategic thinking from the solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For common adjective clues like "useful," always start by listing as many synonyms as you can think of. Don't limit yourself to just the obvious ones.
- Consider Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer box is your most crucial hint. Filter your brainstormed list by word length to quickly eliminate possibilities.
- Check Cross-References: If you're stuck, look at the crossing clues. Even one correctly placed letter from a crossing word can often unlock the answer to "useful."
- Think About Nuance: Sometimes, the puzzle setter might be looking for a specific nuance of "useful," such as "fit for purpose" (serviceable) or "convenient" (handy).
- Review Past Puzzles: Keep a mental note of common answers for frequently appearing clues. Many setters reuse similar concepts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'useful' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'useful' often points to synonyms like handy, helpful, practical, or functional. It's a common adjective clue, so thinking of a wide range of synonyms that fit various letter counts is key to finding the right solution for your puzzle.
How can I narrow down answers for a 'useful' clue when I have only a few letters?
If you have only a few letters, try to match known prefixes or suffixes. For example, if your grid shows 'H_N_Y', 'HANDY' is a strong candidate. Also, consider the most common lengths for this type of clue, which are often 5, 7, or 9 letters. Checking the surrounding letters and confirmed words is crucial for validation.
Are there any less common synonyms for 'useful' that often appear in crosswords?
Yes, occasionally less common or archaic synonyms for 'useful' might appear, especially in more challenging puzzles. Examples include 'UTILE' (meaning useful or profitable, often seen in cryptic crosswords) or 'EFFICACIOUS' (meaning effective, though longer). Expanding your vocabulary of less common synonyms for everyday words can significantly improve your solving skills.