border on crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "border on crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and understand the answers better.
Solutions for "border on crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ABUT: To border on; to touch with a projecting part.
5 Letters
TOUCH: To be in contact with something; to meet.
VERGE: To be on the edge or brink of something; to approach closely.
6 Letters
ADJOIN: To be next to and joined with something.
More About "border on crossword clue"
"Border on" is a versatile phrase that can appear in crosswords with both literal and figurative meanings. Literally, it refers to physical proximity, where one area or object is adjacent to another, sharing a boundary. This is often the case when the answer relates to geographical features or structural connections.
Figuratively, "border on" implies that something is very close to or verging on a particular state, quality, or condition. For example, a situation might "border on ridiculous" or a feeling might "border on despair." Crossword setters use this duality to create challenging yet fair clues, often requiring solvers to consider the broader context of the puzzle.
Understanding these nuances is key to solving such clues. Always consider the letter count and how the word fits with intersecting answers to deduce whether the clue refers to physical adjacency or an impending state.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms Carefully: For clues like "border on," think of all possible synonyms not just for "border" but also for the combined phrase. Words like 'touch,' 'abut,' 'adjoin,' and 'verge' are common.
- Look for Figurative vs. Literal Clues: Determine if the clue is asking for a word describing physical contact or an abstract concept of nearing a state. Other words in the clue might provide hints.
- Utilize Letter Counts and Intersections: Always use the number of letters given and any solved intersecting letters to narrow down the possible answers. This is the most reliable method for confirming a solution.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'border on' typically mean in a crossword clue?
'Border on' in a crossword clue most often implies physical proximity or contact, meaning to be next to, touch, or share a boundary with something. However, it can also be used figuratively, meaning to be very close to a particular state or quality, such as 'bordering on ridiculous'.
Why are there multiple answers for clues like 'border on'?
Multiple answers for a single clue arise because many words in the English language are synonyms or have similar meanings, particularly in the concise context of crossword clues. Different grid patterns and letter counts will require different appropriate words that fit the same meaning.
How can I choose the correct answer when multiple options fit 'border on'?
To determine the correct answer, always check the letter count and the crossing letters from other clues you've already solved. The context of the other clues in the puzzle can also sometimes hint at whether a literal or figurative meaning is intended for 'border on'.