The thrill of spotting a deceptively simple yet profoundly satisfying crossword clue is a sensation familiar to any dedicated solver. Today, we’re diving into one such gem that perfectly encapsulates the elegant wordplay at the heart of daily puzzles: “Coalition, alliance (5).” It’s a classic example of a synonym-based crossword clue, asking us to bridge two closely related concepts with a single, concise five-letter word.
When a crossword clue presents itself with two strong synonyms like “coalition” and “alliance,” the initial instinct is to immediately brainstorm words that fit both definitions. The number in parentheses – our trusted (5) – becomes our guiding star, narrowing the vast ocean of possibilities into a focused search. For seasoned puzzle enthusiasts, this type of crossword clue often triggers a mental checklist of common five-letter vocabulary that frequently appears in grids. It’s not just about knowing the definition; it’s about understanding the specific constraints and conventions that make a crossword clue tick.
“Coalition” speaks to a temporary union, often for a specific purpose, of distinct parties, states, or factions. Think of political parties joining forces or countries forming a strategic bloc. “Alliance,” while similar, can sometimes imply a more enduring or formal agreement, a pact between groups with shared interests. The beauty of this particular crossword clue lies in how these two terms, despite their subtle differences, converge beautifully on a single, short word that perfectly embodies their core meaning of coming together.
The process of solving such a crossword clue involves more than just a dictionary lookup. It’s an exercise in nuance and pattern recognition. Do we think of words that describe the
act
of forming such a group, or the
group itself
? Given the phrasing, the latter is usually the target for a crossword clue of this nature. We’re looking for a noun that serves as a collective term, a label for that combined entity. The five-letter limit is strict, cutting out many perfectly good synonyms that might be six letters or more. This precision is what makes a well-crafted crossword clue so rewarding.
For many a crossword solver, tackling a crossword clue like this brings a sense of familiar challenge. It’s not a cryptic clue designed to twist language, nor is it an obscure definition requiring deep specialized knowledge. Instead, it relies on a solid command of everyday English vocabulary and the ability to find the most compact, accurate representation of a dual definition. It pushes us to consider the most economical word choice, the one that covers both “coalition” and “alliance” without missing a beat, all within that snug five-letter frame.
The satisfaction of filling in that final letter, confirming your initial hunch or perhaps a carefully reasoned deduction, is what keeps us coming back to the daily crossword. This specific crossword clue, “Coalition, alliance (5),” is a prime example of why. It’s straightforward enough to be approachable but precise enough to demand careful thought. It perfectly illustrates how a simple prompt can lead to a delightful journey through our lexicon, culminating in that “aha!” moment that defines the crossword experience. It reminds us that even with clear definitions, finding the exact word that fits all criteria, especially the letter count, is an art form in itself.
Available Answers:
UNION.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 22 October 2025