accuse crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and need a hand with the clue "accuse crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "accuse crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CITE: To blame or find fault with, often by referencing a specific instance or rule.
5 Letters
BLAME: To hold someone responsible for a fault or wrong.
6 Letters
CHARGE: To formally accuse someone of an offense, especially in a legal context.
ALLEGE: To assert without proof or before proving, often used in a legal sense.
IMPUTE: To attribute (something, especially an undesirable quality) to someone.
7 Letters
ARRAIGN: To call or bring (someone) before a court to answer a criminal charge.
More About "accuse crossword clue"
The clue "accuse" is a common staple in crossword puzzles, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of synonyms. It can refer to general blame, formal legal charges, or even more subtle imputations of wrongdoing. The key to solving such clues lies in discerning the specific context the setter intends.
Crossword compilers love to play with words that have multiple shades of meaning. For 'accuse', solutions can range from straightforward synonyms like 'BLAME' to more specific legal terms like 'CHARGE' or 'ARRAIGN'. Sometimes, the clue might hint at the nature of the accusation, such as 'falsely accuse' (which might lead to 'SLANDER' or 'LIBEL'), or 'accuse subtly' (perhaps 'IMPUTE'). Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting words you've already filled in to narrow down the possibilities.
Understanding the nuances between these terms is not only helpful for crosswords but also enriches one's general vocabulary. Whether it's a simple complaint or a serious legal indictment, 'accuse' can open up a variety of related terms that frequently appear in puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Synonym Search: For clues like "accuse," think of all possible synonyms first. Words that mean 'to blame', 'to fault', 'to charge', 'to allege', 'to indict', etc.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and narrow down your options significantly.
- Look for Context Clues: Does the clue contain any additional words that hint at a specific scenario (e.g., "accuse legally," "falsely accuse," "accuse of a crime")? These modifiers are crucial.
- Intersecting Words: Don't forget to use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters will confirm or deny your potential answers.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is "accuse" used as a verb, noun, or adjective in the clue? This can guide you to an answer that matches the required grammatical form.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'accuse' and 'charge' in crosswords?
While similar, 'accuse' is a broader term meaning to blame or find fault, whereas 'charge' often implies a formal, usually legal, accusation. In crosswords, context clues like 'legally' or 'formally' can help distinguish between them.
How do I handle multiple possible answers for an 'accuse' clue?
When multiple answers fit, check intersecting letters from other clues. The letter count provided in the clue (if any) is also crucial. Consider the nuance of the clue's wording; for example, 'falsely accuse' might lead to answers like 'SLANDER' or 'LIBEL' instead of just 'ACCUSE'.
Are legal terms common in crossword clues like 'accuse'?
Yes, legal terminology frequently appears in crosswords, especially with clues related to crime, justice, and blame. Expanding your vocabulary with terms like 'arraign', 'indict', 'impute', and 'allege' can significantly help solve these types of clues.