baffle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "baffle", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "baffle crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FOIL: To prevent someone or something from succeeding, often by frustrating their efforts.
5 Letters
ELUDE: To escape or avoid (a danger, enemy, or pursuer) in a skillful or cunning way; can also mean to fail to be grasped or remembered by someone.
6 Letters
PUZZLE: To cause someone to feel confused because they cannot understand or make sense of something.
STYMIE: To prevent or hinder the progress of.
7 Letters
PERPLEX: To cause someone to feel completely confused and unable to understand something.
MYSTIFY: To utterly bewilder or perplex (someone).
CONFUSE: To make (someone) bewildered or perplexed.
FLUMMOX: To perplex (someone) greatly; bewilder.
More About "baffle crossword clue"
The term "baffle" in crossword puzzles is a versatile clue that can lead to a variety of answers, depending on the nuance the puzzle setter intends. At its core, "baffle" relates to the idea of confusion or hindrance. This means that solutions can range from words describing mental bewilderment, such as MYSTIFY or PERPLEX, to terms indicating the act of thwarting or impeding, like FOIL or STYMIE.
When you encounter "baffle" in a clue, it's crucial to consider the letter count and any other accompanying words. For example, if the clue is 'Baffle, as a plan', it leans more towards FOIL or STYMIE. If it's 'Baffle, confuse deeply', then PERPLEX or MYSTIFY are stronger candidates. Often, setters use such common words with multiple meanings to test a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to discern subtle contextual differences.
Crossword constructors love words like "baffle" because they allow for clever misdirection. A clue might hint at the 'sound' meaning of baffle (to regulate sound), rather than the more common 'confuse' meaning. Always keep an open mind to the less obvious interpretations once the common synonyms don't fit your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
Solving crosswords can be a rewarding challenge. Here are some tips to help you conquer future puzzles, especially when facing clues like "baffle":
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For words with multiple meanings like "baffle," consider if the clue is asking for a synonym related to confusing someone (e.g., PERPLEX) or hindering a process (e.g., FOIL). The context of the puzzle or other words in the clue can be vital.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in your potential answer to the grid. This is the most fundamental filtering tool and can eliminate many possibilities immediately.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: If a few letters are already filled in the grid, see if they form common prefixes (like UN-, RE-) or suffixes (-ING, -ED, -LY). This can help you complete the word faster.
- Think of Homophones and Anagrams: While "baffle" is a direct synonym clue, many crosswords use wordplay. If an answer seems elusive, consider if the clue is hinting at a sound-alike word or an anagram.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're stuck on "baffle," try to solve intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other words will often provide enough hints to unlock the 'baffle' answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "baffle" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "baffle" typically means to confuse, perplex, or frustrate. It often points to synonyms like MYSTIFY, PERPLEX, CONFUSE, or PUZZLE. Sometimes, it can also refer to hindering or preventing, leading to answers like FOIL or STYMIE.
How do I find synonyms for "baffle" when solving crosswords?
When encountering "baffle" as a clue, consider the exact nuance. Is it about mental confusion (e.g., PERPLEX, MYSTIFY), or is it about obstruction (e.g., FOIL, STYMIE)? Think about common crossword answer lengths and try various synonyms. Checking surrounding letters if they are already filled can also narrow down possibilities.
Are there common tricks for "baffle" clues?
Crossword setters often use 'baffle' to mislead or hint at less common synonyms. Pay attention to any additional words in the clue; for example, 'baffle (with sound)' might lead to 'DAMPEN' or 'MUFFLE'. Also, consider if it's part of a phrase or an anagram indicator. Always count the letters to match the grid precisely.