close in on crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a crossword and the clue is "close in on," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Dive in and find the perfect fit!
Solutions for "close in on crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
NET: To capture or trap by surrounding, as in 'netting a criminal'.
5 Letters
CLOSE: To reduce the distance or gap, getting nearer to a target.
6 Letters
CORNER: To trap someone or something by blocking their escape, forcing them into a limited space.
ZEROIN: To focus attention or efforts very precisely on a specific target or goal, getting closer to it.
7 Letters
BESIEGE: To surround a place with armed forces in order to capture it or force a surrender.
8 Letters
APPROACH: To come near or nearer to someone or something in distance or time.
8 Letters
ENCIRCLE: To form a circle around; surround completely.
More About "close in on crossword clue"
"Close in on" is a versatile phrase that implies a gradual reduction of distance, often with an objective like capture, discovery, or completion. In crosswords, this can refer to physical proximity (like a hunter closing in on prey), a tactical manoeuvre (troops closing in on an enemy position), or even a conceptual narrowing (researchers closing in on a solution to a problem).
The nuance of the clue often depends on the surrounding words in the puzzle and the specific crossword's theme. For instance, if the puzzle has a military theme, "BESIEGE" might be more appropriate. If it's about investigation, "ZEROIN" or "NET" could be the key. Always consider the context provided by other solved clues.
Understanding these different contexts is crucial for selecting the correct answer when multiple options fit the letter count. This clue perfectly showcases how synonyms and different shades of meaning are central to solving complex crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters from already-solved clues that intersect with your current one. This is the most reliable way to confirm or narrow down potential answers.
- Consider the Clue's Tone: Is the clue formal or informal? Is it a pun or a straightforward definition? The tone can often guide you to the right type of word. For "close in on," it can range from direct actions to more metaphorical approaches.
- Think Synonyms and Phrases: "Close in on" can be a phrasal verb, so think about single-word synonyms or other short phrases that convey the same meaning. Don't limit yourself to just one type of answer.
- Look for Wordplay: Crossword constructors love wordplay. Sometimes "close in on" might hint at something literally closing (like a door) or being very near, rather than just the pursuit meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if an answer doesn't fit the number of letters I need?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the specific puzzle. If a suggested answer doesn't fit, check other answers for the same clue or consider alternative wordings that convey a similar meaning. Our site provides multiple options to cover various possibilities.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills?
Practice regularly, learn common crosswordese terms (e.g., abbreviations, common Roman numerals), pay attention to clue types (e.g., anagrams, double meanings), and use a good dictionary or thesaurus when stuck. Context is key, so pay attention to intersecting words.
Why do some clues have multiple answers?
Many words have synonyms or multiple meanings, leading to various correct answers for a single clue. The specific context of the puzzle, including intersecting letters, the crossword setter's style, and the overall theme, helps narrow down the correct choice.