alienate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "alienate" in your crossword? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently.
Solutions for "alienate crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
AVERT: To turn away or prevent (e.g., to avert a crisis, or to turn away someone's attention).
6 Letters
DETACH: To separate or disconnect oneself or something from something else.
7 Letters
ISOLATE: To cause someone or something to be alone or apart from others.
8 Letters
ESTRANGE: To make someone feel unfriendly or hostile towards you, often by creating distance.
More About "alienate crossword clue"
"Alienate" is a common verb in crosswords, often pointing towards themes of separation, unfriendliness, or creating distance. The core meaning revolves around making someone feel like an "alien" or outsider. This can be emotional, as in causing a rift in a relationship, or physical, like isolating a group. Understanding this nuance can help you decipher similar clues in future puzzles.
When you encounter "alienate" as a clue, think about its synonyms that fit various letter counts. Words like ESTRANGE, ISOLATE, and DETACH are strong candidates because they directly convey the action of creating separation or causing a feeling of detachment. The context of the surrounding words in the grid, or additional words in the clue, can also provide vital hints.
Puzzles often use verbs like "alienate" to test your vocabulary breadth, particularly your understanding of synonyms and their subtle differences. By focusing on the root idea of making someone or something separate or hostile, you can more easily identify the precise word the puzzle setter is looking for.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always read the full clue carefully. Sometimes an extra word or phrase can point to a specific nuance of "alienate" (e.g., "Alienate, as affections" might lean towards ESTRANGE).
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters will quickly narrow down the possibilities for "alienate."
- Consider Word Lengths: Don't guess. The number of boxes allocated for the answer is your most reliable guide. If you have 8 boxes, "ISOLATE" (7 letters) cannot be the answer.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love to use synonyms that might not be the very first word you think of. Broaden your vocabulary for terms related to separation or hostility.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "alienate" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "alienate" typically refers to causing someone to feel separated, hostile, or isolated from others. It often points to synonyms like ESTRANGE, ISOLATE, or DETACH, focusing on the act of distancing or making someone an 'alien' or outsider.
How can I find the correct word length for "alienate crossword clue"?
The length of the answer word is crucial in crosswords. To find the correct length, count the number of empty squares in the grid designated for the clue. Our page provides answers grouped by letter count to help you quickly find the right fit for your puzzle.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes related to "alienate" in crosswords?
While "alienate" itself is a clear verb, crossword setters might occasionally use related forms. However, for the verb 'alienate,' direct synonyms are much more common. Always prioritize direct synonyms matching the given letter count.