crossword clue defeat – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles. Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the clue "defeat," covering various word lengths and providing helpful explanations.
Solutions for "crossword clue defeat" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROUT: To utterly defeat or put to flight, often in battle.
BEAT: To win against someone in a game or contest; to overcome.
FOIL: To prevent someone from succeeding in an enterprise.
6 Letters
THWART: To oppose successfully; to prevent someone from accomplishing something.
7 Letters
CONQUER: To overcome and take control of (a place or people) by military force.
8 Letters
OVERCOME: To succeed in dealing with (a problem or difficulty).
VANQUISH: To defeat thoroughly.
More About "crossword clue defeat"
The word "defeat" is a common and versatile term in crosswords, often appearing in clues that require synonyms for various forms of overcoming, vanquishing, or preventing success. Depending on the context, the answer could range from a simple 'BEAT' to a more elaborate 'VANQUISH' or 'OVERCOME'. Understanding the subtle nuances of these words is key to selecting the correct answer for your puzzle.
Crossword setters love to play with synonyms, antonyms, and homophones. For "defeat," they might hint at military victories, sports outcomes, or even the overcoming of personal struggles. Always consider the surrounding words in the clue and any letters you've already filled in to narrow down the possibilities. Think broadly about situations where one entity triumphs over another.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider word length: One of the first things to check is the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and focuses your search.
- Look for synonyms and antonyms: For clues like "defeat," think about all possible words that mean the same or the opposite. Sometimes, a clue might be indirect, asking for an antonym of a related concept.
- Check for common crossword indicators: Words like "perhaps," "maybe," "briefly," or "initially" can indicate anagrams, abbreviations, or first letters. While not directly relevant to "defeat," keeping an eye on these helps for other clues.
- Utilize cross-references: If you're stuck on "defeat," try solving the intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers will provide crucial hints for "defeat."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find a specific crossword answer if I only have a few letters?
Many online crossword solvers and databases allow you to enter the letters you know and wildcards for the missing ones. Combining this with the clue, 'defeat' in this case, significantly narrows down the possibilities. Look for sites that offer filtering by length as well.
What's the difference between 'ROUT' and 'DEFEAT' in crosswords?
'ROUT' often implies a complete and disorderly defeat, especially of an army. While 'defeat' is a broader term for any loss, 'rout' suggests a particularly devastating and unorganized loss. Crossword setters use these nuances to guide you to the specific answer they're looking for.
Are there common synonyms for 'defeat' that appear frequently in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'defeat' in crosswords include BEAT, FOIL, DOWN, BEST, ROUT, THWART, CONQUER, OVERCOME, and VANQUISH. The specific word choice often depends on the length of the answer and the exact nuance of the clue's phrasing.