avoiding the issue crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "avoiding the issue" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers, broken down by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "avoiding the issue crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
EVADING: To escape or avoid (someone or something) by cleverness or trickery, often implying a deliberate avoidance of a direct answer or confrontation.
7 Letters
DODGING: To avoid (someone or something) by a sudden quick movement, or by cleverly circumventing a question or responsibility.
FUDGING: Presenting or dealing with something in a vague, evasive, or inadequate way, often to conceal the truth or avoid a direct commitment.
12 Letters
SIDE-STEPPING: To avoid dealing with or confronting (a difficult issue or problem) by moving around it indirectly.
EQUIVOCATING: Using ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself, a classic way of avoiding a direct answer.
13 Letters
CIRCUMVENTING: Finding a way around an obstacle or difficulty, often implying a clever or dishonest means of avoiding something direct.
13 Letters
PREVARICATING: To speak or act in an evasive way, deliberately avoiding the truth or a direct statement, often to mislead or delay.
More About "avoiding the issue crossword clue"
The clue "avoiding the issue" is a common and versatile phrase in the world of crosswords, often pointing to words that describe indirect communication, evasion, or a deliberate refusal to confront a problem or question head-on. These terms can range from simple actions like 'dodging' or 'evading' to more complex linguistic maneuvers such as 'prevaricating' or 'equivocating'.
Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to solving such clues. For example, 'sidestepping' implies a physical or metaphorical movement around the problem, while 'fudging' suggests a less precise or even deceptive handling of facts. Crossword setters love to play on these subtle differences, challenging solvers to consider the precise context and the specific number of letters required for the answer.
When you encounter this clue, think about the various ways someone might avoid a topic: through silence, changing the subject, giving vague answers, or even outright deception. The answer will usually capture one of these forms of indirectness. Always cross-reference with any existing letters in the grid to narrow down the possibilities efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Consider if the clue implies active avoidance (like 'dodging') versus subtle, verbal evasion (like 'equivocating'). The subtle difference can lead you to the exact word.
- Check for 'ING' Endings: Many answers to 'avoiding the issue' clues are present participles (words ending in -ING), indicating an ongoing action. Always consider this possibility first.
- Think Synonyms for 'Avoid': Brainstorm words that mean "to avoid," "to bypass," "to circumvent," or "to not address directly." This broader vocabulary will reveal more potential answers.
- Use Letter Count Strategically: If you have many options, the number of letters is your best guide. Also, consider if the answer is a single word or a hyphenated phrase.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'avoiding the issue' typically imply in crossword puzzles?
In crosswords, 'avoiding the issue' usually points to words related to evasion, circumnavigation, or a refusal to directly address a topic. Synonyms like 'dodging', 'evading', 'skirting', or 'sidestepping' are common answers.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for 'avoiding the issue' clues?
While not strict rules, answers often end in -ING (e.g., DODGING, EVADING, SIDESTEPPING) when the clue implies an ongoing action. Look for prefixes that suggest redirection or indirectness, such as 'CIRCUMLOCUTE' or 'PREVARICATE'.
How can I differentiate between similar answers like 'evading' and 'dodging'?
The distinction often comes from context or subtle nuances in the clue. 'Evading' can imply more cunning or strategic avoidance, while 'dodging' might suggest a quicker, more reactive physical or verbal maneuver. The letter count or crossing letters are often the deciding factor in crosswords.