cheat or swindle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "cheat or swindle", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "cheat or swindle crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CON: To deceive or defraud, often in a confidence trick.
GYP: To cheat or swindle someone (informal).
4 Letters
BILK: To obtain or withhold money from someone by deceit or without justification.
5 Letters
TRICK: To deceive or outwit someone, often for personal gain.
SWIZZ: To cheat or swindle (British informal).
6 Letters
FLEECE: To swindle or charge excessively for goods or services.
HUSTLE: To obtain something by forceful action or persuasion, often involving trickery.
7 Letters
DEFRAUD: To illegally obtain money from someone by deception.
More About "cheat or swindle crossword clue"
The concepts of "cheat" and "swindle" are surprisingly rich sources for crossword constructors, offering a wide array of synonyms and related terms. These clues often test a solver's vocabulary depth, ranging from common verbs like 'CON' to more formal or nuanced terms like 'DEFRAUD' or 'BILK'. Understanding the subtle differences in meaning, as well as the context implied by the clue, is crucial for finding the correct answer.
Crossword setters love these types of clues because they can be framed in many ways – as actions, as nouns describing the act, or even as nouns describing the person performing the act. Pay close attention to whether the clue is asking for a verb (e.g., 'to cheat') or a noun (e.g., 'a cheat'). This distinction can make all the difference in selecting the right word from a list of possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Grammar: Determine if the clue (e.g., 'cheat or swindle') is asking for a verb, noun, or adjective. This will narrow down your possible answers significantly.
- Consider Regional Variations: Some words for 'cheat' or 'swindle' (like SWIZZ or GYP) are more common in specific regions (e.g., British English) or are informal. Knowing these can give you an edge.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to quickly identify which answer from our list fits the pattern.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, a clue for 'cheat or swindle' might lead to a less direct synonym or a term related to the *result* of cheating, rather than the act itself.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "cheat" and "swindle" in crossword clues?
While often used interchangeably, 'cheat' typically refers to acting dishonestly to gain an advantage (e.g., in a game), whereas 'swindle' specifically implies using deception to illegally obtain money or possessions from someone. In crosswords, answers can overlap, so context is key.
How do I know if a 'cheat or swindle' clue refers to a person or an action?
Look for grammatical cues. If the clue implies a noun (e.g., 'A cheat or swindler'), the answer might be a person (e.g., ROGUE, IMPOSTOR). If it implies a verb (e.g., 'To cheat or swindle'), the answer will be an action (e.g., CON, BILK). The number of letters can also guide you.
Are there common short answers for 'cheat' or 'swindle'?
Yes, common short answers include CON (3 letters), BILK (4 letters), and GYP (3 letters). These are frequently seen in puzzles due to their concise nature and direct relevance to the definitions.