avoids crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the crossword clue "avoids", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's solve it together!
Solutions for "avoids crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DUCK: To quickly lower one's head or body to avoid something, often used figuratively for avoiding a responsibility or question.
5 Letters
SHUNS: To deliberately and consistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone or something.
6 Letters
SKIRTS: To go around the edge of something, or to avoid dealing with a topic or issue directly.
ELUDES: To evade or escape from someone or something, often in a skillful or cunning way.
7 Letters
ESCHEWS: To deliberately avoid using; abstain from. Often implies a moral or principled avoidance.
9 Letters
SIDESTEPS: To avoid something by stepping to the side, or to avoid dealing with a problem or issue directly.
More About "avoids crossword clue"
The clue "avoids" is a classic example of a crossword setter's favorite type of word: one with many synonyms and subtle nuances. Depending on the context of the puzzle, "avoids" could refer to a physical action, like dodging or ducking, or a more abstract form of avoidance, such as shunning social contact or eschewing certain habits. Understanding these subtle differences is key to selecting the correct answer among the many possibilities.
When solving, consider the surrounding letters you've already filled in. This can often narrow down the options significantly. For instance, if you have a 'D' and a 'K' at the beginning and end, 'DUCK' becomes a strong candidate. If the clue implies a more formal or deliberate act of abstention, words like 'ESCHEWS' or 'SHUNS' might be more appropriate. Crosswords often test your vocabulary's depth, not just its breadth.
Furthermore, 'avoids' can appear in various tenses or forms (e.g., 'avoiding', 'avoided'). Always match the tense and part of speech of the clue to your answer. This particular clue, 'avoids', is in the present simple tense, indicating the answer should also be in that form or an appropriate equivalent.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Nuance: For clues like "avoids", think about the specific type of avoidance implied. Is it physical, social, moral, or strategic? This can guide you to a more precise synonym.
- Letter Count is King: Always prioritize the given letter count. Even if you think of a perfect synonym, it won't fit if the letter count is off.
- Check Cross-References: Use letters from intersecting words to confirm or narrow down your choices for "avoids". A confirmed letter can eliminate many incorrect possibilities.
- Think about Phrases: Sometimes, "avoids" might be part of a larger phrase (e.g., 'avoids a topic' -> 'SKIRTS the issue'). While this particular clue is a single word, it's a good general strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "shuns" and "eschews"?
While both mean to avoid, 'shuns' often implies actively avoiding a person or thing due to dislike or disapproval. 'Eschews' typically suggests a deliberate decision to abstain from something, often on moral or practical grounds, like 'eschewing meat' or 'eschewing violence'.
How do I find synonyms for "avoids" in crosswords?
When encountering a clue like 'avoids', think about different contexts: does it mean to physically avoid (e.g., 'ducks', 'eludes'), to abstain from (e.g., 'eschews'), or to deliberately ignore (e.g., 'shuns')? Consider the number of letters required and look for words with similar meanings but different nuances. Online thesauruses and crossword dictionaries can also be very helpful.
Why are there so many different answers for "avoids"?
Words like 'avoids' are rich in synonyms because avoidance can manifest in many ways (physical, emotional, moral, tactical). Crossword setters love these types of clues as they allow for a wide range of correct answers depending on the nuance they intend. This variety makes puzzles more challenging and interesting, requiring solvers to consider context and letter count carefully.