crossword clue confess – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue 'confess', you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with their lengths and brief explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "confess" by Letter Count
4 Letters
AVOW: To state something openly or publicly.
BARE: To reveal or uncover something previously hidden.
5 Letters
ADMIT: To acknowledge something to be true, often reluctantly or after denial.
OWNUP: To acknowledge responsibility for something, especially a fault or crime.
GRANT: To agree to give or allow something requested; also, to acknowledge or concede.
6 Letters
REVEAL: To make known to others something previously secret or unknown.
7 Letters
DECLARE: To state officially or formally, often with emphasis or conviction.
PROFESS: To affirm one's faith in or allegiance to something; to declare openly.
11 Letters
ACKNOWLEDGE: To accept or admit the existence or truth of something.
More About "confess"
The word "confess" is a powerful term implying the act of revealing something personal, often a fault, crime, or a secret belief. In its broadest sense, it means to acknowledge or admit something. This verb is frequently encountered in crosswords due to its rich array of synonyms, each carrying slightly different connotations that setters can exploit for precise cluing.
From admitting a minor mistake (ADMIT, OWNUP) to formally declaring a truth (DECLARE, AVOW), or uncovering a hidden aspect (REVEAL, BARE), the nuances of "confess" provide ample material for tricky yet solvable clues. Understanding these subtle differences is key to identifying the correct answer in your puzzle. Crossword constructors love words like "confess" because they allow for a variety of angles and word lengths.
When solving, consider the context of the clue. Is it about admitting guilt, declaring love, or revealing a secret? Each scenario might lead to a different but equally valid synonym for "confess," making it a versatile and often appearing crossword staple.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always start by checking the exact number of letters provided for the answer. This is the quickest way to narrow down the potential solutions for clues like "confess" which have many synonyms.
- Consider Nuances and Context: Words like "confess" have many shades of meaning. Does the clue imply a legal confession, an admission of love, or simply revealing a fact? The context can often point to a specific synonym like ADMIT, DECLARE, or REVEAL.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These existing letters are your most valuable asset in confirming or eliminating potential answers.
- Think Beyond Single Words: While most answers are single words, some puzzles might use multi-word phrases (e.g., "COME CLEAN") that total the indicated letter count. Always keep this possibility in mind for longer answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'confess' in crosswords?
The word 'confess' has numerous synonyms, and crossword setters frequently use these variations to fit different letter counts in their puzzles. Words like ADMIT, OWNUP, AVOW, REVEAL, and DECLARE all carry similar meanings, providing setters with a rich vocabulary to draw from.
How can I narrow down the options for a 'confess' clue?
To narrow down possibilities, first count the number of letters required. Then, look at any intersecting letters you already have filled in from other clues. The specific phrasing of the clue itself can also hint at a particular synonym's nuance. For example, 'Admit a fault' might point more directly to OWNUP or ADMIT.
Is 'confess' ever a multi-word answer in crosswords?
While single-word synonyms are most common, some crosswords might use multi-word phrases that mean 'confess,' such as 'COME CLEAN.' In such cases, the total letter count for the entire phrase would be indicated in the clue. Always consider if a multi-word phrase fits the provided length.