be idle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "be idle," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "be idle crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LOAF: To spend time idly; to lounge about, often without purpose or direction.
REST: To cease from action or motion; to relax or take a break from work or activity.
LAZE: To spend time in a relaxed, easy, or idle way, often implying a pleasant inaction.
IDLE: Not active or in use; to pass time doing nothing in particular.
6 Letters
DAWDLE: To waste time; to be slow or to move aimlessly, often implying inefficiency.
POTTER: To occupy oneself in a desultory but pleasant manner; to mess about without serious intent or a clear goal.
9 Letters
LIEAROUND: To spend time in a relaxed, idle way, typically in a supine or reclining position, doing nothing productive.
More About "be idle crossword clue"
The clue "be idle" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary around concepts of rest, inactivity, and leisure. It can be straightforward, pointing to simple synonyms like LOAF or REST, or it can be a bit trickier, hinting at more nuanced forms of 'idleness' such as DAWDLE (implying slowness or wasting time) or POTTER (suggesting gentle, aimless activity).
Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms is key to selecting the correct answer. A clue might add an adverb to guide you, e.g., "be idle pleasantly" might suggest LAZE, while "be idle, wasting time" could lead to DAWDLE. Always consider the precise nuance of the clue and how it matches the potential answer words.
Crossword setters love to use such versatile verbs because they offer multiple valid answers depending on the letter count and intersecting words. Our comprehensive list aims to cover the most common possibilities, ensuring you have all the tools to tackle this clue whenever it appears.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always filter your possible answers by the exact number of letters required. This is the most crucial step for a clue like "be idle" where multiple synonyms exist.
- Consider Nuances: Does the clue imply pleasant idleness (LAZE, REST) or unproductive loitering (DAWDLE, LOAF)? The subtle context can guide your choice when multiple words fit the length.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from solved intersecting clues are your best friends. They will quickly narrow down the options for "be idle" to the single correct answer.
- Think of Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, clues like "be idle" can lead to phrasal verbs, such as LIE AROUND. Keep an open mind for these longer, multi-word answers often clued as a single action.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "be idle" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "be idle" typically refers to a state of inactivity, rest, or wasting time. The clue often points to verbs or phrases describing lounging, relaxing, or not working, such as LOAF, LAZE, REST, or even DAWDLE.
Are there common synonyms for "idle" used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include LOAF, LAZE, REST, DAWDLE, and STAGNATE. Depending on the length and the puzzle's theme, answers like POTTER or LIEAROUND can also fit, implying a gentle, unproductive use of time.
How do I choose the right answer when multiple words fit the length for "be idle"?
Look at the intersecting letters from other clues. The context of the entire clue can also be helpful; does it imply a leisurely idleness (LAZE, LOAF) or a less productive, perhaps negative, idleness (DAWDLE)? The number of letters is always the primary filter.