bribe crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "bribe crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "bribe crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FIX: To illegally influence the outcome of something, often with money.
5 Letters
GRAFT: Illicit gains, especially through the abuse of one's position.
6 Letters
GREASE: A colloquial term for giving a bribe, as in "greasing someone's palm."
PAYOLA: A secret payment made to someone in return for the promotion of a product, especially in broadcasting.
7 Letters
SWEETEN: To make an offer more attractive, often used in the context of an illicit payment to persuade someone.
CORRUPT: To act dishonestly in return for money or personal gain, often implying the act of bribery.
More About "bribe crossword clue"
The concept of "bribe" is a staple in crossword puzzles due to its rich vocabulary of synonyms and related terms. Clues for "bribe" can range from straightforward definitions to more evocative phrases, often requiring solvers to think about various forms of illicit payments, inducements, or corrupt practices. Common answers include short, punchy words like FIX, and longer, more descriptive terms such as GRAFT or SWEETEN.
When encountering a clue for "bribe," consider the number of letters required and any specific context provided in the clue. For instance, a clue mentioning a hand might point to "GREASE," while one referring to an official's illicit gains could lean towards "GRAFT." The diverse nature of these synonyms means that practice and familiarity with common crossword tropes related to this theme will significantly improve your solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Is the clue direct, descriptive, or playful? This can hint at whether the answer is a straightforward synonym or a more idiomatic expression (e.g., "grease the palm").
- Check Cross-References: Always use intersecting words to confirm your answer. If a potential answer for "bribe" fits perfectly with crossing words, you're likely on the right track.
- Consider Colloquialisms: "Bribe" often lends itself to slang or idiomatic expressions. Be open to answers like "GREASE" that aren't formal synonyms but are widely understood in that context.
- Think About Related Concepts: Sometimes the clue isn't directly "bribe" but a related concept like "corruption," "influence," or "inducement." Expanding your semantic net can help unlock trickier clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'bribe' in crosswords?
While answers vary by puzzle difficulty and specific clue phrasing, 'FIX' (3 letters), 'GRAFT' (5 letters), and 'GREASE' (6 letters) are very common answers for 'bribe' or related concepts in crosswords.
How does context influence the 'bribe' answer?
The surrounding words in the clue are crucial. For instance, 'Illicit payment' might lead to 'PAYOLA', while 'Corrupt an official' could suggest 'GREASE' or 'FIX'. Always consider the specific phrasing and letter count indicated by the puzzle.
Are there different types of 'bribe' related clues?
Yes, clues can be direct ('Bribe'), descriptive ('Illegal payment'), or more cryptic ('Grease a palm'). Understanding these variations helps in identifying the correct synonym or related term for the answer.