scoundrels crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving the trickiest crossword puzzles! If you're stuck on the clue "scoundrels crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "scoundrels crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CADS: An older term for a man who behaves dishonorably or unchivalrously, often used in British English.
RATS: Can be used colloquially to refer to contemptible or treacherous people, often fitting a shorter length.
6 Letters
ROGUES: A classic term for mischievous, unprincipled, or dishonest persons. A very common answer for this clue.
KNAVES: An archaic term for a dishonest or unscrupulous man, frequently seen in crosswords.
7 Letters
RASCALS: Similar to rogues, often implies a mischievous but sometimes disreputable character. Another frequent crossword solution.
8 Letters
VILLAINS: People who are wicked, evil, or responsible for causing harm, fitting a broader and often more serious interpretation of scoundrels.
WRETCHES: A contemptible or despicable person, sometimes implying misery but also moral baseness.
11 Letters
BLACKGUARDS: A historical term for a ruffian or scoundrel, often with a hint of coarseness or villainy.
More About "scoundrels crossword clue"
"Scoundrels" is a versatile word in crosswords, often eliciting a range of synonyms from playfully mischievous characters to truly villainous figures. The nuance typically depends on the specific puzzle's tone and the available letter count. For instance, a four-letter answer might lean towards "CADS" or "RATS," while a longer space could allow for "BLACKGUARDS" or "MISCREANTS." Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms is key to cracking the clue.
The term itself refers to dishonest, unscrupulous, or unprincipled people. In literature and popular culture, scoundrels often add a layer of complexity and conflict, making them a rich source for crossword setters. When encountering this clue, consider the possibility of both archaic and modern terms, and always cross-reference with surrounding answers to confirm your choice. The best crossword solvers develop an intuitive sense for which synonym fits best based on context.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "scoundrels" from many options to just a few.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These are crucial for confirming or eliminating potential answers like ROGUES vs. RASCALS.
- Consider the "Feel" of the Clue: Some clues might hint at a more playful "scoundrel" (e.g., 'mischievous chap'), while others suggest a darker one (e.g., 'wicked fellow'). This subtle distinction can guide you to the right synonym.
- Think about Pluralization: The clue "scoundrels" is plural. Ensure your answer is also plural (e.g., ROGUES, not ROGUE). This is a common trap!
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'scoundrels' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'scoundrels' typically refers to dishonest, villainous, or mischievous individuals. Common answers include synonyms like rogues, rascals, villains, cads, or wretches. The exact answer will depend on the number of letters and any intersecting clues.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like ROGUES and RASCALS for 'scoundrels'?
While ROGUES and RASCALS are very similar, the best way to distinguish them in a crossword is by letter count (ROGUES is 6 letters, RASCALS is 7) and intersecting letters from other clues. Sometimes, the overall theme or tone of the puzzle might also hint at one over the other, though this is less common.
Are there any less common synonyms for 'scoundrels' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, beyond the most common, you might encounter answers like KNAVES, BLACKGUARDS, MISCREANTS, or REPROBATES, especially in more challenging puzzles. Always consider less obvious synonyms if the common ones don't fit the letter count or intersecting letters.