The moment you see a deceptively simple-looking crossword clue like “Opinion (6)“, a little buzz of anticipation (or perhaps a groan, depending on your puzzle-solving mood!) immediately sparks. It’s one of those classic entries that, on the surface, seems straightforward, yet holds a surprising depth for any dedicated solver. This particular crossword clue, short and to the point, invites us to delve into the very essence of what ‘opinion’ truly means, not just in everyday conversation, but within the structured world of a crossword grid.
What makes ‘opinion’ such a rich subject for a crossword setter? At its core, an opinion is a belief or judgment held without conclusive proof. It’s a personal view, a take, a sentiment. It’s subjective, often colored by individual experience, emotion, and perspective. Unlike a verifiable fact, an opinion is open to debate, to change, and to a multitude of different expressions. This multifaceted nature is exactly what a clever crossword clue writer will exploit. They might lean into the idea of a personal stance, a public sentiment, or perhaps even a considered assessment. Each angle offers a potential pathway to that elusive six-letter word for this tricky crossword clue.
When tackling a crossword clue like “Opinion (6)“, the seasoned solver instinctively starts running through synonyms. We think of ‘viewpoint’, ‘perspective’, ‘stance’, ‘belief’, ‘conviction’, ‘judgment’, ‘assessment’, ‘feeling’, ‘thought’, ‘idea’, ‘take’, ‘notion’, ‘sentiment’. Notice how many of these are different lengths? The trick, of course, is to find the one that perfectly fits the (6) letter constraint, while also aligning with any subtle nuances the setter might have embedded. It’s not just about a dictionary definition; it’s about the
best
fit, the most common association a setter would aim for. This is what makes cracking a challenging crossword clue so satisfying.
Sometimes, a crossword clue for ‘opinion’ might lean into its more formal aspects, like a professional assessment or a court’s finding. Other times, it could be more colloquial, referring to a general feeling or a ‘take’ on a situation. The brilliance of a good crossword clue is its ability to hint at one specific word from a vast sea of possibilities. It forces us to consider context, surrounding letters, and even the puzzle’s overall theme if one is present. Understanding the setter’s thought process is key to unlocking any demanding crossword clue.
The challenge with “Opinion (6)” lies in its ubiquity. How many six-letter words mean ‘opinion’? Perhaps more than you’d initially think! This is where careful consideration of the word’s common usage comes into play. Is there a more formal synonym that fits? A more casual one? A word that implies a strong belief versus a fleeting thought? Each possibility needs to be weighed. It’s this mental gymnastics that makes solving a crossword clue so rewarding. It’s not simply about knowing a definition, but about understanding the subtle shades of meaning that differentiate one word from another.
For those moments when you’re staring blankly at this particular crossword clue, remember to think broadly. Consider the different contexts in which an opinion might be expressed. Is it something you hold? Something you offer? Something you form? Each verb associated with ‘opinion’ can sometimes spark the right path. Don’t be afraid to leave it and come back, letting other solved words illuminate possibilities. The beauty of a challenging crossword clue is that it always has a logical answer, waiting to be unearthed. Keep exploring those linguistic pathways, and that six-letter solution will reveal itself. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
NOTION.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 27 August 2025