colonises crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue 'colonises' in your crossword puzzle, 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 "colonises crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
SETTLES: To establish a colony or take up residence in a new place.
8 Letters
INHABITS: To live in or occupy a place, often implying colonization over time.
OCCUPIES: To take or hold possession of a place, potentially as part of a colonisation process.
More About "colonises crossword clue"
The word 'colonises' refers to the act of establishing a colony or settlement in a foreign land or area. This action typically involves people from one territory migrating to and settling in another, often with the intention of exerting control, extracting resources, or expanding their dominion. In the context of crosswords, clues related to 'colonises' often point to words describing the act of taking over, populating, or establishing a presence.
Beyond the literal historical sense, 'colonises' can also be used metaphorically in crosswords. For instance, a disease might 'colonise' an organ, or an invasive species might 'colonise' an ecosystem. Understanding these nuances can help you identify the correct answer, as crossword setters love to play on the different meanings and contexts of words. Always consider both the direct and metaphorical interpretations when faced with such a clue.
When you encounter 'colonises' in a puzzle, think about synonyms for settling, populating, or taking control. The number of letters required will be your primary guide, but also consider the tense (e.g., 'colonises' implies present tense, third person singular) and any other accompanying words in the clue that might provide further context. This strategic approach will significantly improve your chances of solving it.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check the letter count carefully: Always confirm the number of letters for the solution space matches the potential answer you have in mind. For 'colonises', common lengths might be 7 or 8 letters like SETTLES or INHABITS.
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: Think broadly about words related to 'colonises' such as 'settles,' 'occupies,' 'inhabits,' or even 'invades.' Sometimes, the clue might be a clever twist or an antonym if paired with other words.
- Look for tense and plurality: 'Colonises' is a present tense, third-person singular verb. Ensure your answer matches this grammatical form. If the clue was 'colonised,' you'd look for past tense verbs.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "colonises" mean in a crossword context?
"Colonises" in a crossword typically refers to actions like settling new territory, establishing control, or populating an area. Answers often relate to words like SETTLES, INHABITS, or OCCUPIES.
How can I find the right answer for a "colonises" clue?
Look at the number of letters required. Consider synonyms for occupying, settling, or establishing control. Context from surrounding words in the puzzle can also provide valuable hints.
Are there common word patterns for "colonises" answers?
While there's no single pattern, answers often end in -ES if the clue implies a plural or ongoing action. Look for verbs that describe the act of populating or taking over a region.