cancel out crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "cancel out" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by the number of letters, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "cancel out crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
UNDO: To reverse the effect or action of something.
5 Letters
ERASE: To remove or obliterate something written or recorded.
6 Letters
NEGATE: To make ineffective; nullify; to deny the existence of something.
OFFSET: To counteract or compensate for something unwelcome or unpleasant.
7 Letters
NULLIFY: To make legally null and void; invalidate; to cancel out the effect of something.
COUNTER: To act in opposition to; to defend against.
10 Letters
INVALIDATE: To make something not true or acceptable; to deprive of legal force.
More About "cancel out crossword clue"
The phrase "cancel out" is a common one in crosswords, often pointing to words that mean to nullify, negate, or balance an effect. It's a versatile clue that can lead to answers across a wide range of letter counts, from short and punchy words like UNDO to longer, more formal terms like INVALIDATE. Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms is key to choosing the correct answer for your puzzle.
When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a financial puzzle? Then OFFSET might be a good fit. Is it about reversing a mistake? UNDO or ERASE could be more appropriate. Crossword constructors love to play on these nuances, so always keep an open mind about the specific shade of meaning being implied.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms Broadly: Don't just stick to the most obvious synonyms. "Cancel out" can extend to concepts like "balance," "neutralize," or "annul."
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters in the available spaces. This is the fastest way to eliminate many possibilities and narrow down your options significantly.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Leverage letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are often the most crucial clues to unlocking tricky answers.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, "cancel out" might be clued as part of a longer phrase, or its answer might be a less common phrasal verb.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my crossword answer doesn't fit?
If an answer doesn't fit the number of squares, re-evaluate the clue for synonyms or alternative interpretations. Crosswords often have multiple valid answers for a single clue depending on the specific puzzle's constructor and theme. Check the letter count carefully.
How can I improve my crossword-solving speed?
Practice regularly, familiarize yourself with common crosswordese (frequently appearing words), and learn to identify common clue patterns like anagrams, homophones, or specific abbreviations. Reading widely can also enhance your vocabulary.
Are there different types of 'cancel out' clues?
Yes, 'cancel out' can be clued in various ways, such as 'make void', 'nullify', 'balance', 'erase the effect', or even more subtly using synonyms. The context of surrounding letters and other clues often helps narrow down the exact meaning required.