befuddles crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "befuddles," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle-solving back on track. Dive in and find the solution you need!
Solutions for "befuddles crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
PUZZLES: Causes someone to feel confused because they cannot understand or make sense of something, like a difficult riddle.
BEMUSES: To confuse or bewilder someone, often in a slightly dazed or amused way, implying a state of slight disorientation.
8 Letters
CONFUSES: To make someone bewildered or perplexed, often by presenting complex or unclear information.
9 Letters
PERPLEXES: To cause someone to feel completely baffled and unable to understand something complicated or unexplained.
MYSTIFIES: To utterly bewilder or perplex someone, especially by being obscure or enigmatic in nature.
More About "befuddles crossword clue"
"Befuddles" is a common verb found in crosswords, and it's almost always used to mean "to confuse," "to perplex," or "to bewilder." When you encounter this clue, the setter is looking for a synonym that fits the exact number of letters and any intersecting words you might have already solved. The beauty of this clue lies in its directness; it rarely involves complex wordplay unless specified as a cryptic clue.
Understanding the nuances of its synonyms can be key. While 'confuses' is broad, 'bemuses' suggests a slightly dazed or amused confusion, and 'perplexes' implies a deeper, often frustrating bafflement. 'Mystifies' adds an element of mystery or inexplicable nature to the confusion. Considering these slight differences can help you pinpoint the exact word the setter intends, especially when you have multiple possibilities fitting the letter count.
Often, these types of clues test your vocabulary of common synonyms. Maintaining a mental list of words related to states of mind – particularly confusion, clarity, excitement, and calm – can significantly speed up your crossword-solving process. Our site aims to provide you with the most accurate and readily available answers to help you conquer any crossword challenge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check the Tense: If the clue is "befuddles" (present tense, singular), ensure your answer is also present tense and singular (e.g., CONFUSES, PUZZLES).
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Double-check the number of letters required by the grid. Even one letter off can send you down the wrong path.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The most powerful tool in your arsenal. Use letters from already-solved intersecting clues to eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the correct one.
- Think of Synonyms: Brainstorm all possible words that mean "to confuse" or "to bewilder." Write them down and see which ones fit the letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'befuddles' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'befuddles' almost always points to synonyms of 'confuse,' 'puzzle,' 'bewilder,' or 'perplex.' The clue asks for a word that means to make someone unable to think clearly or understand.
How many letters are common for 'befuddles' answers?
Common answer lengths for 'befuddles' range from 7 to 9 letters. Examples include CONFUSES (7 letters), PUZZLES (7 letters), BEMUSES (7 letters), PERPLEXES (9 letters), and MYSTIFIES (9 letters). Always check the given letter count in your puzzle.
What strategy helps with 'befuddles' clues?
When solving clues like 'befuddles,' focus on synonyms for confusion or bewilderment. Pay attention to the tense and number (singular/plural) if it's not present tense. Use crossing letters from other solved clues to quickly narrow down the possibilities. If it's a cryptic clue, look for hidden meanings or wordplay related to 'making unclear' or 'disorienting'.