slew crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're struggling with "slew crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "slew crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LOT: Refers to 'slew' in the sense of a large quantity or number. Example: 'a whole slew of problems' meaning 'a whole lot of problems.'
4 Letters
MASS: Similar to 'lot,' denotes a large, often undefined, quantity or collection.
6 Letters
KILLED: This answer refers to 'slew' as the past tense of the verb 'slay,' meaning to kill violently or in great numbers.
7 Letters
SWERVED: When 'slew' is used in the context of movement, this refers to the past tense of 'slew,' meaning to turn or slide violently and uncontrollably sideways.
More About "slew crossword clue"
'Slew' is a fascinating word that often appears in crosswords due to its multiple meanings, making it a tricky but rewarding clue. Its primary definitions include 'a large number or quantity' (as in 'a whole slew of emails') and, less commonly today, as the past tense of 'slay' meaning 'to kill violently.' Another significant meaning, particularly in British English, refers to a violent or uncontrolled sideways movement, often of a vehicle.
Understanding which meaning the clue intends is crucial. Crossword setters love to play on these ambiguities. For instance, a clue might cleverly hint at the 'quantity' meaning with phrases like "Heaps" or "Plenty," while another might use "Did in" or "Felled" to suggest the 'kill' meaning. The context provided by other intersecting answers is often the ultimate key to unlocking the correct interpretation.
Mastering words like 'slew' that have diverse definitions is a hallmark of advanced crossword solving. By familiarizing yourself with these nuances, you'll not only solve the current puzzle but also build a stronger vocabulary for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter when dealing with multi-meaning words like 'slew'.
- Analyze Surrounding Clues: Look at clues that intersect with 'slew'. Often, one of these cross-references will provide a strong hint or even a direct letter that eliminates certain possibilities.
- Consider Different Meanings: If an answer doesn't immediately come to mind, cycle through all known meanings of the clue word. For 'slew', think about quantity, killing, and swerving motions.
- Use a Crossword Dictionary/Solver: Don't hesitate to use resources. Online solvers or dedicated crossword dictionaries can quickly list all possible answers for a given clue and length, making it easier to identify the one that fits.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for 'slew' in crosswords?
'Slew' is a versatile word with several distinct meanings, which can make it challenging in crosswords. It can refer to a large quantity (synonyms like LOT, MASS), the past tense of 'slay' (KILLED), or a sudden swerving motion (SWERVED, VEERED). The specific meaning intended by the clue depends on the context of the puzzle.
How can I determine the correct answer for 'slew' in my crossword?
To find the correct answer for 'slew', first check the number of letters required for the solution. This is the most crucial hint. Then, consider the surrounding cross-referenced clues; they often provide additional context or hints that narrow down the meaning of 'slew' to one of its possible interpretations.
What are some common crossword clues related to 'slew'?
Common clues for 'slew' often hint at its various meanings. For 'large quantity,' you might see clues like 'A lot,' 'Huge amount,' or 'Great deal.' For the 'slay' meaning, clues could be 'Did in,' 'Killed,' or 'Slaughtered.' For the 'swerve' meaning, look for clues such as 'Turned sharply,' 'Veered off course,' or 'Skidded sideways.'