Shrewd caution (8) - Crossword Clue
Answer: PRUDENCE
Understanding the Clue: Shrewd Caution
- The clue "shrewd caution (8)" combines two important concepts that lead us directly to prudence.
- Shrewdness implies intelligence, astuteness, and the ability to make sound judgments based on practical understanding.
- Caution refers to the careful consideration of potential risks before taking action.
- When these qualities merge together, they form the cornerstone of prudent behavior—a balanced approach that values wisdom over impulsiveness.
- Prudence represents more than simple carefulness; it embodies discernment, foresight, and the wisdom to evaluate situations thoroughly before making decisions.
- This virtue has been celebrated throughout history as one of the cardinal virtues, emphasizing its fundamental importance in ethical living and practical decision-making.
Related Crossword Clues You Might Encounter
- Crossword puzzles frequently feature variations of this clue that also point toward prudence or similar concepts.
- You might see clues like "Careful judgment," "Wisdom in practical matters," "Discretion," or "Judicious caution."
- Understanding these alternative phrasings helps you recognize prudence as the solution even when the wording differs slightly.
- Other eight-letter words that occasionally appear with similar clues include "sagacity," "wariness," or "judgment," though prudence remains the most common answer for clues emphasizing both shrewdness and caution together.
Tips for Solving Similar Crossword Clues
- When you encounter clues that combine two descriptive words like "shrewd caution," look for answers that synthesize both concepts rather than focusing on just one element.
- Pay attention to the letter count provided in parentheses—this numerical clue significantly narrows your options and helps confirm your answer.
- Consider the context of surrounding clues and intersecting letters already filled in your grid.
- These cross-references often provide crucial letters that make finding the correct answer much easier.
- If you're stuck, think about synonyms for each part of the clue separately, then look for words that encompass both meanings.
- Building your crossword vocabulary through regular practice helps you recognize common patterns and frequently used words like prudence.
- Many crossword dictionaries and solver apps can assist you in learning these recurring answers and understanding why they work for specific clue types.
Shrewd caution (8) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: What does prudence mean in simple terms?
A: Prudence means exercising good judgment and careful thought before making decisions, combining wisdom with caution to avoid unnecessary risks while still taking appropriate action.
Q: Why is prudence considered a virtue?
A: Prudence has been recognized as a cardinal virtue since ancient times because it guides the proper application of all other virtues, helping individuals determine the right course of action in complex situations.
Q: Are there other eight-letter words meaning caution?
A: Yes, other eight-letter words related to caution include "wariness," "vigilant" (as an adjective), and "judgment," though prudence remains the best fit for clues emphasizing both shrewdness and caution.
Q: How common is this crossword clue?
A: The clue "shrewd caution" appears regularly in crossword puzzles across various difficulty levels, making prudence a valuable word to remember for both novice and experienced solvers.
Q: What's the origin of the word prudence?
A: Prudence comes from the Latin "prudentia," a contraction of "providentia" meaning foresight, which itself derives from "providere" (to see ahead or provide for the future).
