belittle crossword clue 9 letters – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most comprehensive and accurate solutions for the crossword clue "belittle crossword clue 9 letters". We aim to provide quick help and clear explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "belittle crossword clue 9 letters" by Letter Count
9 Letters
DISPARAGE: To speak of someone or something as being of little worth or importance; to undervalue or criticize.
DENIGRATE: To criticize unfairly; to defame or belittle someone's character or achievements.
DOWNGRADE: To reduce to a lower rank or level; to portray as less significant or valuable than it truly is.
More About "belittle crossword clue 9 letters"
The clue "belittle" often appears in crosswords seeking a verb that means to diminish, demean, or make something seem unimportant. When you encounter this clue, think about synonyms that imply a reduction in value, status, or significance, whether literally or figuratively.
Common answers for "belittle" tend to focus on verbal actions that undermine or criticize, such as 'DISPARAGE' or 'DENIGRATE'. However, it can also refer to a reduction in perceived importance, as with 'DOWNGRADE'. Always consider the specific letter count provided to narrow down the possibilities. For a 9-letter answer, the options above are highly probable due to their direct meaning and common usage in puzzles.
Understanding the nuances of "belittle" in a crossword context means recognizing that the setter is looking for a word that perfectly fits the definition of making something seem small or unimportant, regardless of its true size or significance. It's a classic clue that tests your vocabulary of synonyms for this concept.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Type: Is "belittle" used as a verb, adjective, or noun in the context of the clue? This helps determine the part of speech of the answer you're looking for.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a word like "belittle," immediately think of its synonyms (disparage, demean, undervalue) and even antonyms (praise, laud, extol) to sometimes deduce an answer if the clue is indirect.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already-solved intersecting words to quickly confirm or rule out potential answers. This is often the fastest way to verify a solution.
- Think About Context: Sometimes, the theme of the puzzle or other clues can hint at a specific type of vocabulary being used.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'belittle' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'belittle' often serves as a synonym for words meaning to disparage, diminish, demean, or make seem unimportant. Clues looking for answers to 'belittle' usually point towards synonyms that describe making something or someone appear less valuable or significant.
How do I determine the correct length for answers to 'belittle' clues?
The clue itself often specifies the number of letters (e.g., 'belittle (9)'). If not, you rely on intersecting words from other clues in the crossword grid. The number of empty squares for the word will reveal its exact length.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes associated with 'belittle' answers?
While not always, answers related to 'belittle' might sometimes include prefixes like 'DE-' (as in demean, denigrate, devalue) or 'DIS-' (as in disparage). However, the most reliable approach is always to focus on the core meaning and find a suitable synonym that fits the given letter count.