begins crossword – All Crossword Answers

Q: What does 'begins' mean in a crossword clue?

In a crossword, 'begins' or 'begin' often points to a word meaning to start, commence, initiate, or open. It can also hint at the first letter of a word if it's a cryptic clue, but for standard puzzles, it's usually a synonym for starting.

Q: How do I find synonyms for 'begins'?

To find synonyms for 'begins', think about actions or states that signify an initial phase. Common synonyms include start, commence, open, initiate, launch, inaugurate, or set off. Consider the number of letters required by the puzzle.

Q: Are there different types of clues for 'begin'?

'Begin' can appear as a direct definition (like on this page), part of a phrase, or as a cryptic indicator. For example, in cryptic crosswords, 'beginning of X' might refer to the first letter of word X.

Stuck on the clue "begins crossword"? You've come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you need a short or long solution, we've got you covered.

Solutions for "begins crossword" by Letter Count

5 Letters

START: A common and direct synonym for 'begins'. Often used to indicate the commencement of an action, event, or process. E.g., "The race will START at noon."

OPENS: Can refer to the beginning of operations or an event, especially when something becomes accessible or available. E.g., "The new shop OPENS next month."

9 Letters

COMMENCES: A more formal term meaning to begin or start. Frequently used in official or ceremonial contexts. E.g., "The trial COMMENCES on Monday."

More About "begins crossword"

The clue "begins" is a classic example of a direct definition clue in crosswords. It asks you to find a word that is a synonym for 'begins'. While seemingly straightforward, the challenge often lies in finding the exact word that fits the letter count and intersects correctly with other words in the puzzle. Crossword setters love to use common verbs like 'begin', 'end', 'start', and 'stop' because they have a rich variety of synonyms across different lengths and formality levels.

When encountering such a clue, consider the context if any is provided, though direct synonyms usually stand alone. Think about synonyms for 'begin' ranging from informal (e.g., KICKSOFF, if it were a single word) to formal (e.g., INITIATES, INAUGURATES). The most frequent answers tend to be 'START' and 'OPENS' due to their versatility and common usage.

It's also worth noting that in cryptic crosswords, 'begins' can be a positional indicator, hinting at the first letter of a word or phrase. However, for a standard crossword clue like "begins crossword", a direct synonym is almost certainly what's required.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters in your potential answer against the spaces provided in the grid. Even a single letter off can throw your entire solution.
Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "begins," thinking about its opposites (ends, stops) can sometimes spark ideas for the actual answer, or lead you to related concepts.
Check Intersecting Letters: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as strong hints. An answer must fit perfectly with all crossing letters. This is especially vital for clues like 'begins' where multiple synonyms might exist.
Vary Your Vocabulary: Crosswords often use words from various registers – formal, informal, specific jargon. For 'begins', consider both everyday terms and more academic or archaic synonyms.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'begins' mean in a crossword clue?

In a standard crossword, 'begins' or 'begin' typically serves as a direct definition clue, requiring a word that means to start, commence, initiate, or open. The context of the puzzle, such as theme or surrounding clues, might subtly influence the best fit.

How do I find synonyms for 'begins' quickly?

When stuck, mentally run through common verbs for starting actions: 'start', 'open', 'commence', 'initiate'. Also, consider phrasal verbs if the clue length allows for a single-word answer that captures the phrase's meaning. Using an online thesaurus can also be very helpful.

Are there different types of clues for 'begin'?

Yes. While a direct synonym is most common for simple clues, in cryptic crosswords, 'begin' can be a powerful indicator. It might suggest the first letter of a word (e.g., "beginning of the end" = E), or it could signal a wordplay mechanism related to starting or inception.