crossword clue curtail – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "curtail" in your crossword, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions sorted by length, along with explanations to help you understand the connection and enhance your solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue curtail" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CUT: To reduce or stop something abruptly, often meaning to curtail expenses or activities.
LOP: To cut off, especially a part of something; implies a reduction or removal, thus curtailing.
4 Letters
TRIM: To reduce something in size, amount, or extent by cutting off excess parts, effectively curtailing it.
6 Letters
REDUCE: To make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size, a direct synonym for curtail.
LESSEN: To diminish in size, amount, or intensity; to make or become less, which means to curtail.
7 Letters
SHORTEN: To make or become shorter, fitting perfectly with the meaning of curtailing duration or length.
10 Letters
ABBREVIATE: To shorten (a word, phrase, or text), a more specific form of curtailment.
More About "crossword clue curtail"
"Curtail" is a popular clue in crosswords due to its versatile meaning, often implying a reduction, limitation, or shortening of something. This can apply to time, resources, activities, or even physical objects. When you see this clue, think about what might be cut back, restricted, or made briefer.
Crossword setters love using such words because they open up a range of synonyms with varying lengths. For instance, 'curtail' can lead to short answers like 'CUT' or 'TRIM,' but also longer ones like 'REDUCE' or 'SHORTEN.' Sometimes, the clue might hint at a more specific form of curtailment, such as 'ABBREVIATE' for text.
Understanding the nuances of "curtail" can significantly improve your solving speed. Consider the context of other clues in the puzzle. Is it a financial context (cut spending), a time context (shorten a meeting), or a physical context (trim a hedge)? The context often guides you to the most appropriate synonym.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For "curtail," consider if the puzzle implies a general reduction (reduce, lessen) or a more direct cut (cut, trim).
- Check Letter Count: Always count the empty squares first. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for "curtail" to those of a specific length.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by crossing words are your best friends. They can quickly confirm or rule out potential answers.
- Think of Homophones or Puns: While "curtail" is usually direct, some crossword clues play on words. Keep an eye out for wordplay, though less common with straightforward synonym clues like this one.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Familiarize yourself with frequent answers for common actions. 'Reduce,' 'shorten,' and 'cut' are staples for 'curtail.'
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "curtail" typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'curtail' usually refers to reducing, lessening, shortening, or cutting something. It implies a reduction in size, amount, duration, or extent. Common synonyms that serve as answers include 'reduce,' 'shorten,' 'trim,' 'cut,' or 'abbreviate.'
Are there common synonyms for "curtail" often used as answers?
Yes, common crossword answers for 'curtail' often include 'CUT,' 'TRIM,' 'LOP,' 'REDUCE,' 'LESSEN,' 'SHORTEN,' and 'ABBREVIATE.' The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and any intersecting clues.
How can I identify the correct length for "curtail" answers?
The correct length for a 'curtail' answer is determined by the number of empty squares in your crossword grid. Cross-reference with intersecting clues to narrow down possibilities. If a clue also has an indicator for a partial word, it might be a shortened form of a longer synonym.