bow and scrape crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "bow and scrape", complete with explanations to help you understand the context and improve your puzzle-solving skills. No more getting stuck!
Solutions for "bow and scrape crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FAWN: To show excessive deference or flattery, often to gain favor.
5 Letters
TOADY: A person who fawns on others for personal gain; to behave in an obsequious way.
6 Letters
GROVEL: To lie or crawl abjectly on the ground; to act in an excessively subservient manner.
KOWTOW: To act in an excessively subservient manner; originally, to touch the forehead to the ground in token of worship or submission.
More About "bow and scrape crossword clue"
"Bow and scrape" is an idiom describing behavior characterized by excessive politeness, humility, or subservience, often done to curry favor or show extreme deference to someone of higher status. In crosswords, clues based on this idiom typically seek single verbs or short phrases that encapsulate this kind of obsequious conduct.
The phrase itself evokes an image of someone literally bowing deeply and scraping their foot on the ground as a gesture of profound respect or submission. Understanding this visual and the underlying meaning of seeking approval through overly deferential actions is key to unlocking the correct crossword answer. Common synonyms like 'fawn,' 'grovel,' or 'kowtow' are excellent examples of words that fit this meaning.
When you encounter such a clue, consider the negative connotations often associated with this behavior, as it implies a lack of genuine respect and more a desire for personal gain. This nuance can guide you towards answers that reflect insincerity or sycophancy, which are core to the idiom's meaning in a puzzle context.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Contextual Clues: Always look at the surrounding words or phrases in the clue for hints. Is it asking for an action, a person, or a description? For "bow and scrape," it's usually an action.
- Letter Count Matters: The number of letters in the answer is your most critical guide. Ensure your proposed solution fits the exact number of boxes in the grid.
- Think Synonyms: If a direct answer isn't immediately apparent, brainstorm synonyms or related concepts. For "bow and scrape," think of words for flattery, subservience, or excessive politeness.
- Check Cross-References: If a puzzle has intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to narrow down possibilities for "bow and scrape."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bow and scrape' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'bow and scrape' typically refers to actions or behaviors that involve excessive politeness, flattery, or subservience to gain favor. It often points to words like FAWN, GROVEL, or KOWTOW.
How can I find the correct length for 'bow and scrape' answers?
The correct answer length for 'bow and scrape' depends on the specific crossword puzzle you are solving. Always check the number of boxes available in the grid for the clue to determine the required letter count, then look for answers that fit that length.
Are there other phrases similar to 'bow and scrape' in crosswords?
Yes, similar phrases often used in crosswords to imply excessive deference or flattery include 'suck up to', 'kiss up to', 'play up to', or 'act servile'. These can lead to answers like 'FLATTER', 'CURRY FAVOR', or 'OBEY'.