The phrase "silent but deadly sort" typically refers to someone or something that may appear quiet or unassuming but can be quite impactful or dangerous. It is often used humorously to describe flatulence—silent but with a strong odor—implying that while it may not be loud, its effects can be significant. More broadly, it can apply to individuals who may not draw attention to themselves but possess a hidden strength or capability that can be surprising or influential.
The clue "Silent but deadly sort" is likely a playful reference to something that causes an effect without being noticeable or loud about it. This phrase often alludes to the infamous combination of a silent fart and its unpleasant odor, which perfectly fits the description of something that is both "silent" and "deadly" in the humorous sense.
For a crossword context, considering the number of letters in the answer would help narrow down the word choices. Common answers to this clue include:
1. **FART** (4 letters): It's a playful answer that matches the clue directly, as it's a common slang term that fits the description of being silent but can be quite unpleasant.
2. **GAS** (3 letters): This is another feasible answer that captures the concept of silent yet potentially deadly.
3. **SNEEZE** (6 letters): While it's not commonly used in the same humorous context as the word "fart," it could fit if the hint had suggested something that seems quiet.
To verify your answer, it's important to look at intersecting letters from other clues in the crossword grid. If any of these terms fit with confirmed letters from adjacent answers, you can be more confident in your choice.
### Tips for Solving Crossword Clues:
1. **Look for Wordplay**: Crossword clues often employ puns or ambiguous phrases. Think outside the box.
2. **Consider Different Meanings**: Words can have multiple interpretations. "Silent but deadly" might not be literal.
3. **Use Pattern Recognition**: Recognizing common idioms or phrases in clues can lead you to a quick answer.
4. **Check Crossing Letters**: If you're unsure, fill in letters from other clues when you confidently know a word, as these can guide you toward the correct answer.
5. **Think Contextually**: Certain clues will tie into overarching themes of the crossword, whether they relate to a time period, a specific culture, or even a particular topic.
If you provide the number of letters or any known letters in your potential answer, I can help refine the possibilities even further!