compulsion crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "compulsion" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide the most accurate and comprehensive answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "compulsion crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
URGE: A strong desire or impulse, often difficult to resist. This is a very common answer for 'compulsion' in crosswords when a four-letter word is needed.
5 Letters
DRIVE: An innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior. It denotes a powerful internal force or motivation, fitting the 'compulsion' context.
7 Letters
IMPULSE: A sudden, strong and unreflective urge or desire to act. This answer aligns well with the less rational aspects of compulsion.
9 Letters
OBSESSION: The state of being preoccupied with something or someone, indicating a persistent, unwanted thought or urge. This word captures a deeper, more intense form of compulsion.
More About "compulsion crossword clue"
The clue "compulsion" in crosswords can be a tricky one, as it has several synonyms that fit various lengths. It generally refers to a strong, often irresistible, inner drive or urge to do something. This can range from a simple 'urge' to a deep 'obsession' or 'addiction'. Crossword setters love to use words with multiple shades of meaning to challenge solvers, and 'compulsion' is a prime example.
When you encounter this clue, consider the broader context of the puzzle. Are there any crossing letters already filled in? These will be your best guide to narrowing down the possibilities. Also, pay attention to any subtle qualifiers in the clue itself; sometimes, a setter might add a word that points to a specific type of compulsion, such as a 'bad habit' or an 'uncontrollable need'.
Understanding the nuances of words related to 'compulsion' will significantly improve your ability to solve not just this clue, but many others that rely on synonyms for inner drives and desires. Regularly expanding your vocabulary, especially with words that describe human emotions and behaviors, is a key strategy for crossword success.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and narrow down your choices.
- Look for Context Clues: The surrounding words in the clue or other completed answers in the grid can often provide hints about the precise meaning or context intended by the setter.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct answer isn't immediately obvious for a clue like "compulsion", think of its closest synonyms or even its antonyms, as clues sometimes use opposites.
- Don't Be Afraid to Use a Solver: If you're stuck, a reliable crossword solver like Crosswordanswer.co.uk can provide a push in the right direction without spoiling the fun.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'compulsion' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'compulsion' often refers to a strong, irresistible urge or drive, leading to answers like URGE, IMPULSE, or OBSESSION. The context of the clue and surrounding letters are key to determining the exact answer.
How can I distinguish between similar 'compulsion' answers like 'urge' and 'drive'?
The number of letters is the primary differentiator. If the space is 4 letters, 'URGE' or 'NEED' are likely. For 5 letters, 'DRIVE' or 'HABIT' might fit. Always consider the surrounding letters in the grid for confirmation, as well as any subtle nuances in the clue's wording.
Are there any common synonyms for 'compulsion' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, frequently appearing synonyms include OBSESSION, FIXATION, ADDICTION, IMPULSE, and CRAVING. These words often denote a powerful, sometimes irrational, internal force, and are common solutions depending on the required length.