condense crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "condense crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "condense crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
REDUCE: To make something smaller in size, amount, or extent.
7 Letters
SHORTEN: To make or become shorter.
COMPACT: To make or become compressed, dense, or tightly packed.
THICKEN: To make or become dense or viscous, often referring to liquids.
8 Letters
COMPRESS: To press or squeeze together; often used in data or physical objects.
10 Letters
ABBREVIATE: To shorten (a word, phrase, or text).
More About "condense crossword clue"
The clue "condense" is a versatile term often used in crosswords, hinting at various actions involving reduction, intensification, or summarizing. It can refer to making something physically smaller, like compressing a gas or compacting waste, or making something conceptually shorter, such as condensing a story into an abstract.
Solvers should consider the different facets of "condense." Is the clue asking for a word related to making a liquid denser, as in 'THICKEN'? Or perhaps shortening a word or text, which would lead to 'ABBREVIATE' or 'SHORTEN'? The context of the surrounding clues and the number of letters provided are crucial in narrowing down the possibilities.
Understanding these subtle differences in meaning can be the key to unlocking the correct answer. Crossword constructors love to play on words with multiple synonyms, and "condense" is a prime example of such a word that can have several valid solutions depending on the puzzle's specific intent.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For clues like "condense," always think of a wide range of synonyms such as 'reduce', 'shrink', 'compress', 'shorten', 'abbreviate', 'summarize', and 'thicken'.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters in the answer is your most significant hint. A 6-letter answer for "condense" might be 'REDUCE', while an 11-letter one could be 'ABBREVIATE'.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue provides additional context. "Condense a liquid" strongly points to 'THICKEN', whereas "Condense a book" might suggest 'ABBREVIATE' or 'SUMMARIZE'.
- Fill in Crossing Letters First: If you're stuck on "condense," try solving the words that intersect with it. Even one or two letters can reveal the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "condense" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "condense" often points to answers related to reducing, shortening, summarizing, or making something denser or more compact. It can refer to physical compression, literary abbreviation, or the act of making an idea more concise.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for "condense" answers?
While not universal, answers might involve words that imply "making less" or "making dense," such as 're-' (reduce), 'com-' (compress, compact), or 'en-' (encapsulate, though less direct). The key is often the core meaning of reducing volume or content, and solvers should consider various synonyms.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like COMPRESS and COMPACT?
Look at the clue's nuance. "Compress" often implies applying pressure to reduce volume (like a file or gas), while "compact" suggests making something neat and small, or tightly packed. "Compact" can also be a noun, referring to a small, dense item. The surrounding letters in the grid will be your best guide to the exact fit.