abstaining crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "abstaining crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "abstaining crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SOBER: Not indulging in excesses; moderate or serious in demeanor, especially not affected by alcohol.
8 Letters
TEETOTAL: Characterized by abstinence from alcohol.
9 Letters
TEMPERATE: Exercising moderation and self-restraint, especially regarding alcohol and food; mild in nature.
10 Letters
ABSTEMIOUS: Not self-indulgent, especially when eating and drinking; characterized by abstinence.
More About "abstaining crossword clue"
The concept of "abstaining" is a recurring theme in crosswords, often testing a solver's vocabulary around self-control, moderation, and specific types of restraint. Clues related to abstaining can range from general terms like 'temperance' to more specific ones like 'teetotalism' (abstaining from alcohol) or 'fasting' (abstaining from food).
When encountering such a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a general knowledge crossword, or does it have a specific theme? The number of letters in the answer is your primary guide, but also think about common prefixes and suffixes associated with restraint or lack thereof. For instance, 'non-drinking' is a direct and common answer for longer blanks.
Understanding the nuances between terms like 'sober' (not drunk, or serious) and 'abstemious' (moderate in eating/drinking habits) is key. Crossword setters love to play on these subtle differences, so a broad vocabulary related to self-denial and moderation will serve you well.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the provided letter count with potential answers. This is the most crucial filter for solutions.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct answer isn't immediately obvious, think of synonyms for "abstaining" or even its antonyms if the clue uses a negative phrasing (e.g., "not abstaining").
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the surrounding words in the clue (e.g., "from drink," "from food," "generally") can hint at the specific type of abstinence required.
- Use Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to narrow down possibilities for the "abstaining" answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'abstaining' imply in a crossword clue?
'Abstaining' in a crossword clue typically refers to refraining from something, often a pleasure or indulgence like alcohol, certain foods, or activities. Answers usually relate to self-control, moderation, or specific practices like teetotalism.
Are there common synonyms for 'abstaining' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include 'sober', 'temperate', 'teetotal', 'abstemious', 'forbearing', and 'refraining'. The specific context of the puzzle (e.g., surrounding letters, number of blanks) will guide you to the exact word.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'sober' and 'teetotal'?
While both imply restraint, 'sober' broadly means not drunk or serious, while 'teetotal' specifically refers to complete abstinence from alcohol. The clue might contain subtle hints, or the length of the answer will be the deciding factor.