Intimated Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 14, 2025

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Unlocking the Mystery: A Deep Dive into "INTIMATED" Crossword Clues

The word "intimated" in a crossword puzzle can be deceptively tricky. While seemingly straightforward, its multifaceted meaning allows for a variety of cryptic and direct clues, making it a favorite among constructors. This article delves deep into the various ways "intimated" can appear as a crossword clue, providing examples, strategies for solving, and a comprehensive understanding of the word's nuances.

Understanding the Nuances of "INTIMATED"

The core meaning of "intimated" revolves around subtly suggesting or hinting at something without explicitly stating it. This indirect communication is key to understanding its usage in crossword clues. However, the word also possesses secondary meanings that add complexity:

• Suggested: This is the most common meaning in crossword clues. The clue might describe an action or situation where something was subtly implied rather than openly declared.

• Hinted: Similar to "suggested," this emphasizes the indirect nature of the communication. The clue might focus on the veiled or ambiguous aspect of the message.

• Implied: This highlights that the meaning is not directly stated but can be inferred from the context. The clue might present information that, when pieced together, reveals the "intimated" information.

• Informed (secretly): This meaning is less common but still possible. The clue might involve a clandestine communication or a hidden piece of information.

Types of Crossword Clues Using "INTIMATED"

Crossword clues using "intimated" can take several forms:

1. Direct Clues: These clues offer a relatively straightforward definition of the word.

• Example: Subtly suggested (8 letters)

This type of clue is easier to solve, as it directly relates to the primary meaning of "intimated."

2. Cryptic Clues: These clues use wordplay, double meanings, or other techniques to hide the answer. This is where the complexity arises.

• Example: *Whispered a secret to the gardener, perhaps? *(8 letters)

Here, "whispered a secret" hints at the indirect nature of communication, directly relating to "intimated." The addition of "to the gardener, perhaps?" adds a layer of cryptic complexity, possibly referencing a specific context.

3. Clues Using Synonyms or Related Words: These clues utilize words that are closely associated with "intimated," requiring solvers to understand the broader semantic field.

• Example: Implied, hinted at (8 letters)

4. Clues Based on Context: These clues present a scenario where something is implied rather than explicitly stated, requiring the solver to understand the context to deduce the answer.

• Example: The boss's frown ______ his displeasure with the report. (8 letters)

In this case, the solver must understand that the boss's frown indirectly communicates displeasure, fitting the definition of "intimated."

Strategies for Solving "INTIMATED" Clues

• Consider the word's various meanings: Don't limit yourself to just the primary definition. Explore the nuances of "suggested," "hinted," "implied," and even the less common "secretly informed."

• Look for indirect clues: Cryptic clues often use wordplay or ambiguity to obscure the answer. Pay close attention to secondary meanings and word associations.

• Analyze the word count: The number of letters provided is crucial. This limits the possibilities and helps focus your search.

• Consider the surrounding letters: If you have some of the surrounding letters in the crossword grid, this can help you narrow down the possibilities.

• Break down cryptic clues: Cryptic clues are often structured with multiple components. Try to isolate the different parts of the clue to understand their individual meanings and how they relate to each other.

• Use cross-references: Letters revealed in intersecting words can provide crucial information to help solve the clue.

• Utilize online crossword solvers (with caution): These tools can help when you are truly stuck, but try to solve the clue yourself first to enhance your crossword-solving skills.

Examples of Cryptic Clues and Their Solutions

Let's examine some more complex cryptic clues using "intimated":

• Clue: The manager subtly suggested a pay cut was coming (8 letters) Solution: INTIMATED

This clue uses a straightforward narrative to hint at the subtle communication involved.

• Clue: A whispered warning, perhaps? (8 letters) Solution: INTIMATED

This uses a more metaphorical approach, highlighting the covert and indirect nature of the communication.

• Clue: He suggested, indirectly, that the project was failing (8 letters) Solution: INTIMATED

Expanding Your Crossword Vocabulary

Improving your vocabulary, particularly around synonyms and related terms, is crucial for successfully solving "intimated" clues. Familiarize yourself with words like: implied, suggested, hinted, insinuated, suggested, indicated, alluded to, whispered, conveyed subtly. The more synonyms you know, the better equipped you will be to tackle various clue formulations.

Conclusion

The word "intimated" presents a fascinating challenge in crossword puzzles. Its multifaceted meaning, combined with the potential for cryptic clues, makes it a rewarding puzzle element. By understanding the word's nuances, employing effective solving strategies, and continually expanding your vocabulary, you can confidently conquer any "intimated" clue that comes your way. Happy puzzling!