brace crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "brace". Whether you're looking for a quick answer or a deeper understanding, we've got you covered for all word lengths.
Solutions for "brace crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PAIR: A set of two similar things, often joined or used together.
PROP: A support, or to support something.
GIRD: To prepare oneself for something difficult, or to encircle and fasten.
5 Letters
CLAMP: A device for holding things tightly together.
CUPLE: A pair, especially of dogs, referring to two items.
SHORE: To support or hold up a structure, often with a prop.
6 Letters
STEADY: To make or become firm, stable, or constant.
COUPLE: Two of the same kind; a pair.
7 Letters
SUPPORT: To bear all or part of the weight of; hold up, to strengthen.
10 Letters
STRENGTHEN: To make or become stronger; to reinforce.
More About "brace crossword clue"
The clue "brace" in crosswords is a classic example of a word with multiple meanings, making it a versatile and sometimes tricky clue. It can refer to a pair of items (as in "a brace of ducks"), a device used for support or to hold things together (like dental braces or a back brace), or the act of preparing oneself for something (to "brace for impact"). This polysemous nature is what allows it to have such a wide array of possible answers across different letter counts.
Understanding the context is key when encountering "brace." Is the clue implying a quantity, a physical support, or a state of readiness? Crossword setters often play on these different definitions, sometimes in subtle ways. By examining the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters you've already solved, you can often narrow down the intended meaning and find the correct solution among the many possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always remember that many words, like "brace," have several definitions. If your first thought doesn't fit, think about other ways the word can be used.
- Utilize Letter Count: The number of letters is your most powerful guide. If "brace" needs a 4-letter answer, you can immediately rule out longer options like STRENGTHEN.
- Look for Synonyms and Related Concepts: Think broadly about synonyms. For "brace," consider words that mean to support, to pair, or to prepare.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The most reliable method is to use letters from words that cross your target clue. These confirmed letters will quickly reveal the correct answer among similar-length possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "brace" have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word "brace" is polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. It can refer to a pair (as in 'a brace of pheasants'), a support or something that provides stability (like dental braces or a brace for a wall), or the act of preparing oneself (to brace for impact). Each of these meanings can be clued, leading to a variety of possible answers depending on the crossword setter's intent.
What's the best way to determine the correct answer for "brace"?
To pinpoint the correct answer for "brace," first check the number of letters required by the puzzle. Then, use intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved. The specific context of the clue (e.g., 'brace for impact' versus 'a brace of ducks') is also crucial as it often hints at the intended meaning.
Are there other common crossword clues with multiple meanings like "brace"?
Yes, many words in English are polysemous and frequently appear in crosswords with multiple interpretations. Common examples include 'bank' (river bank, financial institution), 'seal' (marine mammal, official stamp, to close), 'deal' (agreement, to distribute cards), and 'crane' (bird, lifting machine). Recognizing these multiple meanings is a key crossword-solving skill.