Having a physical existence (8) Crossword Clue
Answer: TANGIBLE (8 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Having a physical existence" with 8 letters is "TANGIBLE".Tangible refers to something that has a physical existence and can be touched or perceived by the senses. It describes objects, assets, or things that are real and concrete, as opposed to abstract concepts, making them capable of being physically measured or interacted with.
Why “Tangible” Fits
The clue asks for a single word (8 letters) meaning “having a physical existence.” The answer, TANGIBLE, fits exactly:
- Having a physical existence: Tangible means something that can be touched, felt, or physically perceived, as opposed to being abstract or purely conceptual.
- Direct match: The word has precisely 8 letters, matching the clue’s enumeration, and corresponds directly to the idea of real, physical existence.
- Clear synonym: It is the standard term used when distinguishing between the abstract (ideas, emotions) and the concrete (objects, things).
Tangible has roots in Latin and has long conveyed concreteness:
- Origin and usage: Derived from the Latin tangere, meaning “to touch,” it entered English in the late Middle Ages to emphasize material reality.
- Dual sense: While primarily meaning “having physical form,” it’s also extended metaphorically, as in “tangible benefits” or “tangible evidence,” where the emphasis is on something real and perceptible.
- Examples: “The statue is tangible proof of the artist’s skill,” or “Her relief was almost tangible.” Both stress the sense of reality or touchable existence.
In quick crosswords, a clue like “having a physical existence (8)” points toward a clear, dictionary-style definition with little wordplay:
- Possible synonyms like corporeal (9) or material (8) may come to mind, but the concise nature of tangible makes it more apt.
- The letter count (8) narrows the options, and tangible clicks neatly with the straightforward clue wording.
- Crossword compilers often choose familiar, versatile vocabulary, and tangible is both common and precise, making it the best match.
