abide by crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "abide by" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you quickly complete your grid.
Solutions for "abide by crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OBEY: To follow rules or commands, aligning with the meaning of 'abide by'.
KEEP: To adhere to an agreement or promise, a common synonym for 'abide by'.
6 Letters
FOLLOW: To act in accordance with; to comply with, directly matching 'abide by'.
ADHERE: To stick to; to be faithful to a rule or standard, a strong fit for 'abide by'.
7 Letters
CONFORM: To comply with rules, standards, or laws, often used interchangeably with 'abide by'.
RESPECT: To have due regard for and act in accordance with a rule or principle.
More About "abide by crossword clue"
The phrase "abide by" carries a precise meaning of compliance, adherence, or faithfulness to rules, decisions, or agreements. In crosswords, it's a popular clue because it has several common synonyms that fit various letter counts, making it versatile for puzzle constructors. Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to solving it efficiently.
When you see "abide by," think about actions that involve upholding a standard, following an instruction, or sticking to a commitment. This could be anything from obeying a law to keeping a promise or conforming to social norms. The best answer will always be the one that fits the letter count and intersects perfectly with other solved clues.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide not just the answers, but also the context that helps you become a better crossword solver. By understanding the typical wordplay and common synonyms associated with clues like "abide by," you'll find future puzzles much easier to navigate.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters in the answer grid before trying to fit a word. This immediately eliminates many possibilities for a clue like "abide by."
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it aligns with letters from crossing words you've already solved.
- Consider Nuances of Meaning: While "abide by" generally means to obey, think about subtle differences. Does the context suggest keeping a promise (KEEP), following an instruction (OBEY), or conforming to expectations (CONFORM)?
- Think of Common Phrases: Sometimes, a clue's answer is part of a common phrase. While not directly applicable to "abide by" as a single word answer, it's a good general strategy for more complex clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'abide by' commonly mean in crosswords?
'Abide by' in crosswords typically refers to following rules, obeying commands, adhering to agreements, or conforming to standards. Common answers often include words like OBEY, FOLLOW, KEEP, or ADHERE.
How do I choose the correct answer for 'abide by' when multiple options fit?
To select the correct answer, always check the number of letters required by the grid. Additionally, look at intersecting letters from other clues – these will narrow down the possibilities significantly. Context from the puzzle's theme or other related clues can also be helpful.
Are there any common pitfalls when solving 'abide by' clues?
A common pitfall is overlooking less direct synonyms. While OBEY and FOLLOW are straightforward, words like KEEP (as in 'keep to an agreement') or ADHERE (as in 'adhere to a policy') are also very common. Always consider the full range of synonyms for 'abide by' across different contexts.