break a law or rule crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "break a law or rule" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently. Find your solution below and learn more about this intriguing phrase!
Solutions for "break a law or rule crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERR: To make a mistake or go astray from what is right, often in the context of an unwritten rule or expectation.
5 Letters
FLOUT: To openly disregard a rule, law, or convention, showing contempt or defiance.
6 Letters
BREACH: To break or fail to observe a law, agreement, or code of conduct, implying a violation of trust or an established boundary.
OFFEND: To violate a law or rule, or to cause displeasure or annoyance by acting against social norms or legal statutes.
7 Letters
VIOLATE: To break or fail to comply with (a rule, law, or formal agreement), often implying a strong transgression.
DISOBEY: To refuse to obey a rule or command, typically from an authority figure or an established directive.
10 Letters
TRANSGRESS: To go beyond the bounds of (a moral principle or other established standard of behavior), often with an implication of wrongdoing.
More About "break a law or rule crossword clue"
The phrase "break a law or rule" is a common concept not just in legal contexts, but also in everyday life and, of course, in the world of crosswords. It encompasses a wide range of actions, from minor infractions to serious criminal acts. Crossword setters love clues like this because they allow for multiple synonyms, each with slightly different connotations, providing a good challenge for solvers.
Understanding the subtle differences between words like "violate," "breach," and "transgress" can be key to selecting the correct answer. While 'violate' implies a direct breaking of an established rule, 'breach' often suggests breaking an agreement or a trust. 'Transgress,' on the other hand, often has a moral or ethical dimension, referring to overstepping boundaries of acceptable behavior. Knowing these nuances can help you pick the perfect word for your grid.
This clue also highlights how crosswords often test your vocabulary depth. They don't just ask for a simple definition, but rather a word that fits the context, letter count, and sometimes, even the cryptic nature of the clue. Always consider the surrounding words in the puzzle and any additional indicators the setter might have provided.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters in your potential answer against the required length for the grid. This is the simplest yet most crucial step.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: For clues like "break a law or rule," think of all possible synonyms. Then, consider if there are subtle differences in meaning that might make one word a better fit than another for the specific puzzle.
- Look for Common Crossword Patterns: Some answers are very common in crosswords. If you're stuck, think about common words that fit the pattern of known letters and the general theme of transgression.
- Utilize Cross-References: Don't forget that other completed clues in your puzzle can provide valuable letters. Use these to narrow down possibilities for the clue you're working on.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common answer for 'break a law or rule' in crosswords?
Common answers for 'break a law or rule' often include 'VIOLATE', 'BREACH', or 'OFFEND', depending on the number of letters required. The exact answer will depend on the puzzle's specific length requirements and surrounding letters.
Are there different nuances between answers like 'VIOLATE' and 'TRANSGRESS'?
Yes, while both mean to break a rule, 'VIOLATE' usually refers to breaking a formal rule, law, or agreement. 'TRANSGRESS' often implies going beyond moral, ethical, or customary boundaries. Both can fit the clue, but context might favor one over the other.
How can I find a crossword answer if I only have a few letters?
If you have some letters, you can use wildcard searches (e.g., 'V_OLATE' for 'VIOLATE'). Alternatively, consider all common synonyms for the clue and see which ones fit the known letter pattern. Our site provides answers grouped by letter length, which can greatly assist in narrowing down possibilities.