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Type of Japanese poem (5) Crossword Clue
Answer: TANKA (5 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Type of Japanese poem" with 5 letters is "TANKA".Tanka is a traditional form of Japanese poetry consisting of five lines with a syllabic pattern of 5-7-5-7-7. It is one of Japan's oldest poetic forms, often expressing deep emotions or reflections on nature, love, or seasonal changes, and continues to be popular in Japanese literature today.
Why “Tanka” Fits
The clue asks for a noun (5) meaning “type of Japanese poem.” The answer, TANKA, fits exactly: a tanka is a classical Japanese verse form consisting of five lines with a 5,7,5,7,7 syllabic pattern, so it is literally a type of Japanese poem.
The word itself means “short poem” and names one of Japan’s oldest and most important traditional forms.
A Bit of Background
Tanka poetry dates back over a millennium and was central in early Japanese court literature, often used for personal reflection, love, and nature themes.
In English‑language discussions of Japanese verse, “tanka” is a standard technical term alongside “haiku,” so it is a precise match for the clue’s definition.
Crossword Solving Insight
In quick crosswords, clues like “Type of Japanese poem (5)” usually point either to HAIKU or TANKA; when the enumeration is (5) and the clue is broad, cross letters decide which form is meant.
Here, with five letters and a direct definitional fit, TANKA is the intended answer for “type of Japanese poem (5).”
