casts off crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "casts off". We've gathered answers of various lengths to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "casts off crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHEDS: To cast off means to shed, as in shedding old skin, tears, or unwanted weight.
DROPS: To let something fall or abandon it, fitting the idea of casting off from a person or group.
MOLTS: Primarily used for animals casting off feathers, skin, or hair during a natural cycle.
7 Letters
REMOVES: A general term for taking something away, which can be synonymous with casting off an article of clothing or a barrier.
SLOUGHS: Often used to describe casting off dead skin or a bad habit, very much in line with 'casts off'.
8 Letters
DISCARDS: This implies getting rid of something as no longer useful or desirable, similar to casting off.
More About "casts off crossword clue"
The phrase "casts off" can appear in crosswords with several nuances, making it a versatile clue. At its core, it signifies getting rid of something, but the context often determines the most precise answer. For example, a snake "casts off" its skin, while a person might "cast off" old habits or responsibilities. A boat "casts off" from its mooring, implying a departure.
Understanding these different applications is key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple words of the same length could fit. Pay attention to any other words in the clue or surrounding completed letters in the puzzle. The word "sheds" is a very common synonym, but "discards," "sloughs," and "molts" are also strong contenders, each with slightly different connotations that can make them uniquely suitable for specific crossword themes or styles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: "Casts off" isn't just about physical shedding. Think about metaphorical interpretations like abandoning, renouncing, or setting free.
- Check letter counts: Always count the available spaces in your grid. This immediately narrows down potential answers, making words like SHEDS (5 letters) or DISCARDS (8 letters) distinct possibilities.
- Look for context clues: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can hint at whether the answer is literal (like skin) or figurative (like a habit). If the puzzle has an animal theme, MOLTS might be more likely than SHEDS.
- Utilize crossing letters: Don't try to solve the clue in isolation. Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate possibilities. This is often the most reliable way to pinpoint the exact answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'casts off' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'casts off' usually refers to shedding, discarding, or getting rid of something no longer needed or wanted. It can apply to physical objects, skin (like a snake), habits, or even a boat leaving a mooring.
Are there common synonyms for 'casts off' that frequently appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include SHEDS, DISCARDS, SLOUGHS, MOLTS, REMOVES, and DROPS. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and any crossing letters.
How can I distinguish between 'sheds' and 'molts' when solving a clue like 'casts off'?
'SHEDS' is a more general term for letting fall or taking off, applicable to skin, tears, or weight. 'MOLTS' is more specific, referring to animals shedding feathers, hair, or an exoskeleton as part of a natural process. If the clue implies an animal, MOLTS might be more precise, otherwise SHEDS is often a safe bet.