bends crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "bends," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations and categorized by their letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "bends crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ARCS: Curved lines or paths.
BOWS: Bends forward in a sign of respect, or a curved weapon.
5 Letters
KNEES: Joints that allow legs to bend, as in 'bends at the knees'.
WINDS: Moves in a curving or twisting course, as a river 'winds'.
6 Letters
CURVES: Deviates from a straight line, forming a non-straight path or shape.
FLEXES: Bends a limb or joint, often implying muscular action.
More About "bends crossword clue"
The clue "bends" is a classic example of a versatile crossword clue, capable of leading to a variety of answers depending on the context. Its flexibility stems from the many ways something can "bend"—be it a physical object, a path, a body part, or even an abstract concept like rules. This makes it a fascinating, yet sometimes tricky, clue for solvers.
Crossword setters love clues like "bends" because they can hint at both literal and figurative meanings. For instance, 'bends' can refer to the act of folding something over, the turning of a road, or the flexing of a muscle. Understanding these nuances is key to distinguishing between potential solutions such as ARCS, CURVES, or FLEXES, and ultimately finding the perfect fit for your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the grid against your potential answer. This is the most crucial step for a clue like "bends" with multiple possibilities.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues to narrow down the options. This is especially helpful when dealing with synonyms.
- Consider Nuance and Context: Think about the subtle differences between synonyms. Does the clue imply a permanent bend (like a curve) or a temporary action (like a flex or bow)? The surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme might offer vital context.
- Identify Part of Speech: Is "bends" used as a verb (e.g., 'he bends the rod') or a plural noun (e.g., 'the bends in the river')? This can guide you towards the correct answer's form.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'bends'?
The clue 'bends' is versatile because the verb 'to bend' has multiple synonyms and applications. Depending on the specific context of the puzzle (e.g., 'bends down,' 'bends steel,' 'bends in the road'), different words like ARCS, CURVES, FLEXES, or BOWS might be appropriate. Crossword setters often use such broad clues to allow for various word lengths and meanings.
How do I choose the correct 'bends' answer in a puzzle?
To pinpoint the right answer, look for intersecting letters from other clues. The number of letters required for the solution is also a crucial hint. Additionally, consider the specific nuance of 'bends' intended by the setter – is it a physical bend, a metaphorical one, or a path that bends? The surrounding clues can often provide vital contextual clues.
Are 'bends' and 'curves' always interchangeable in crosswords?
While 'bends' and 'curves' are often synonymous, especially when referring to paths or shapes, they are not always interchangeable in crosswords. 'Bends' can also imply folding (like FLEXES) or inclining (like LEANS), while 'curves' specifically refers to a non-straight path or shape. The context of the clue and the number of letters will dictate which is correct.