What pals have (10) - Crossword Clue
Answer: FRIENDSHIP
Understanding the Clue Structure
- Crossword constructors often use descriptive phrases to hint at abstract concepts. In this case, "what pals have" asks solvers to think about the intangible connection between friends.
- The word "pals" serves as an informal synonym for friends, making this a definition-style clue where the answer describes the relationship itself.
- The 10-letter constraint guides solvers toward FRIENDSHIP rather than shorter alternatives like "bond" (4 letters) or "kinship" (7 letters).
- This length specification is crucial for crossword solving, as it immediately narrows down possible answers.
Why FRIENDSHIP Is the Perfect Answer
- FRIENDSHIP encompasses the complete relationship between pals, including loyalty, companionship, emotional support, and shared experiences.
- Unlike casual acquaintances, true friendship involves deep mutual understanding and long-term commitment.
- The word derives from Old English "freondscipe," combining "friend" (one who loves) with "-ship" (a state or condition).
- This etymology reinforces that friendship isn't just knowing someone—it's an active state of caring and connection.
Tips for Solving Relationship-Based Crossword Clues
- Look for letter count first: The number in parentheses (10) immediately tells you the answer length, eliminating shorter words like "bond" or "trust."
- Consider word endings: Many relationship nouns end in "-ship" (kinship, partnership, companionship), which can help you work backward from the final letters.
- Think abstractly: When clues ask "what X has" or "what Y have," they're usually pointing to intangible concepts rather than physical objects.
- Use crossing letters: If you've already solved intersecting clues, use those confirmed letters to verify FRIENDSHIP fits the pattern.
- Remember common patterns: Crosswords often recycle successful clues, so "what pals have" appears regularly across different puzzles.
What pals have (10) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Why not "fellowship" instead of friendship?
While fellowship (10 letters) could theoretically fit, it typically refers to formal associations or group memberships rather than the intimate bond between individual pals.
Q: Are there any 10-letter synonyms for friendship?
Sisterhood and brotherhood are both 10 letters but gender-specific. Attachment (10 letters) lacks the mutuality implied by "pals." FRIENDSHIP remains the most accurate answer.
Q: How do I know when a clue wants an abstract noun?
Phrases like "what [people] have," "quality of," or "state of being" typically signal abstract concepts rather than concrete objects or actions.
Q: Could this clue appear in British versus American crosswords?
Yes, FRIENDSHIP is universal in English-language crosswords worldwide. The concept and spelling remain consistent across regional puzzle variations.
Q: What difficulty level uses this type of clue?
"What pals have" appears in beginner to intermediate puzzles. The straightforward definition makes it accessible, though the abstraction requires some lateral thinking.
