threshold crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "threshold 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 get you across that finishing line.
Solutions for "threshold crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SILL: The bottom part of a doorframe, often crossed when entering.
5 Letters
BRINK: The extreme edge or point beyond which something will happen.
VERGE: An edge or border, often signifying a point of transition.
LIMIT: A point or level beyond which something may not extend; a boundary.
8 Letters
DOORSTEP: A step leading up to the outer door of a house or building, a literal threshold.
BOUNDARY: A line or division marking the limits of an area or concept.
ENTRANCE: The act of coming in, or a place through which one may enter.
More About "threshold crossword clue"
The term "threshold" in crosswords is a fascinating one because it carries both a literal and a metaphorical meaning. Literally, it refers to the plank or stone that forms the bottom of a doorway, which is why answers like SILL or DOORSTEP are very common. This sense directly relates to physical entry points.
Metaphorically, a threshold can represent a starting point, a boundary, or a critical juncture. When you're "on the brink" of something, you're at a threshold of change or an event. This broader interpretation allows for answers like BRINK, VERGE, and LIMIT. Recognizing which sense the clue is leaning towards, often hinted at by other words in the clue or the context of the puzzle, is crucial for solving.
Consider the nuance: is the puzzle asking for a physical structure, or a conceptual line? The length of the answer and intersecting letters will provide the final clues, but understanding this dual nature of 'threshold' will significantly boost your solving speed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always double-check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the first and most critical filter for any clue, especially for versatile words like 'threshold'.
- Consider Synonyms & Antonyms: For abstract clues, think about not just direct synonyms but also words that imply the opposite or a related concept. 'Threshold' might lead to 'start' (synonym) or 'exit' (antonym in a different context).
- Look for Homonyms & Puns: Some crossword setters love wordplay. While less likely for a straightforward clue like 'threshold', always be aware that a word might have a secondary meaning or sound like another word.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Don't force an answer. If only a few letters fit, and they don't seem right with the clue, step back. The intersecting words are your best friends in confirming or rejecting a hypothesis.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'threshold' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'threshold' often refers to the literal entry point of a doorway (like a SILL or DOORSTEP) or, metaphorically, to a starting point, a boundary, or a critical juncture (like a BRINK, VERGE, or LIMIT).
Are there common synonyms for 'threshold' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include 'brink', 'verge', 'sill', 'doorstep', 'limit', 'start', 'beginning', 'entrance', and 'boundary'. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and the broader context of the clue.
How can I distinguish between similar 'threshold' answers like 'brink' and 'verge'?
Context is key. 'Brink' often implies being on the edge of a significant event or physical drop-off, while 'verge' can also mean an edge, but is sometimes used for the side of a road or an approaching state. The surrounding letters, the number of letters required, and any additional words in the clue will help pinpoint the exact answer.