atone for crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "atone for", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "atone for crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PAY: To give money for something owed, often extended to paying a debt to society or morality for a wrong committed.
4 Letters
MEND: To make something better or correct a problem, often used in the context of mending relationships or mending one's ways.
5 Letters
ATONE: To make amends or reparation. This is a direct synonym and a common answer when the clue is the phrase itself or a close variation.
6 Letters
REDEEM: To compensate for the faults or bad aspects of something, or to gain absolution from sin.
REPENT: To feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one's wrongdoing or sin.
7 Letters
EXPIATE: To make amends or reparation for (guilt or wrongdoing), a more formal synonym for atone.
10 Letters
MAKEAMENDS: To compensate or make up for a wrong or injury. This common phrase perfectly captures the meaning of 'atone for'.
More About "atone for crossword clue"
"Atone for" is a phrase that frequently appears in crosswords, often testing a solver's vocabulary related to concepts of guilt, forgiveness, and moral obligation. The core meaning revolves around making amends or reparations for a past wrong. This can manifest in various ways, from a simple apology to significant actions aimed at correcting a mistake or imbalance.
When you encounter this clue, think about words that convey the idea of seeking redemption, making up for a fault, or paying a penance. The range of possible answers, as seen above, reflects the nuances of this concept in the English language. Crossword setters love to play on these synonyms, sometimes using a more common word like "MEND" and at other times opting for more sophisticated terms like "EXPIATE."
Understanding the context is key. If the clue is part of a themed puzzle, the answer might lean towards a specific type of atonement (e.g., religious, legal, personal). Always consider the letter count and intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities and find the perfect fit for your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters provided in the clue against the potential answers. This is often the quickest way to eliminate incorrect solutions.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "atone for," think broadly about synonyms not just for the entire phrase but also for individual words (e.g., 'atone' itself). Sometimes, clues might even point to antonyms if phrased cleverly.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Answers involving "atone for" might sometimes include common prefixes (like RE- for words such as REDEEM or REPENT) or suffixes that complete a verbal action.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues first. The letters you fill in from other answers will provide crucial hints for the "atone for" clue, making it much easier to deduce the correct word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'atone for' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'atone for' usually refers to making amends, compensating for wrongdoing, or seeking forgiveness. Common answers include synonyms for these concepts like EXPIATE, REDEEM, or REPENT.
Why are there multiple answers for 'atone for crossword clue'?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the specific puzzle, the letter count required, and the other intersecting words. Our page provides a comprehensive list to cover all possibilities and help you find the correct fit for your puzzle.
How can knowing 'atone for' help with other clues?
Understanding the core meaning of 'atone for' can help you identify related concepts like repentance, redemption, and reparation. These themes might be clued in different ways in other puzzles, expanding your vocabulary and pattern recognition for similar challenges.