crossword clue designate – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "designate," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue designate" by Letter Count
3 Letters
TAG: To mark or attach a label to someone or something for identification or classification, effectively designating them.
4 Letters
NAME: To officially call by a particular title, or to choose someone for a specific role, thereby designating them.
5 Letters
ELECT: To choose someone by voting or by formal decision to hold an office or position, hence designating them for that role.
6 Letters
ASSIGN: To officially allocate a task, duty, or responsibility to someone, or to appoint someone to a post, which is a form of designation.
7 Letters
APPOINT: To assign a job or role to (someone), formally selecting them for a position, which means to designate them.
8 Letters
INDICATE: To point out or show, or to specify or 'designate' a particular course of action, quality, or location.
More About "crossword clue designate"
The word "designate" is a versatile term often encountered in crosswords, and its meaning can range from formally appointing someone to a position to simply marking something for a specific purpose. This ambiguity is precisely what makes it a popular clue for crossword setters, as it allows for multiple correct answers depending on the required letter count and the overall theme or context of the puzzle.
When "designate" appears as a clue, consider if it's asking about an official appointment (like 'APPOINT' or 'ELECT'), a simpler act of naming ('NAME'), or a form of marking or signifying ('TAG', 'INDICATE'). The surrounding clues and the structure of the puzzle grid are crucial in narrowing down the possibilities. Often, setters will hint at the specific nuance through other words in the clue or by the type of puzzle (e.g., cryptic vs. standard).
Understanding the synonyms and antonyms of "designate" can also be highly beneficial. Words like 'assign', 'nominate', 'select', and 'denote' are all closely related and frequently appear as answers. By keeping these variations in mind, you can approach the clue with a broader perspective and increase your chances of finding the precise solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the answer grid to the possible solutions. This is the most crucial step for a clue like "designate" which has many synonyms.
- Consider Different Meanings: "Designate" can mean to name, appoint, or mark. Think about which sense of the word fits the puzzle's context and the other intersecting words.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, try solving intersecting clues first. The letters you fill in from other answers will provide crucial hints for the "designate" clue.
- Think of Formal vs. Informal Usage: Sometimes the clue implies a formal act of designation (e.g., appointing a minister), while other times it might be informal (e.g., tagging a bag).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the correct length for 'designate' in my crossword?
The length of the answer usually depends on the specific crossword puzzle's grid. Check the number of empty squares associated with the clue 'designate'. Our page lists common answers by their letter count, so you can easily match it to your puzzle.
What are common synonyms for 'designate' used in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'designate' often used in crosswords include 'name', 'appoint', 'select', 'elect', 'assign', 'call', 'mark', and 'denote'. The specific answer will depend on the context and required letter count, as setters often look for precise nuances.
Can 'designate' have multiple meanings in crosswords?
Yes, 'designate' can refer to appointing someone to a position, marking something for a specific purpose, or even indicating a particular quality or place. Crossword setters frequently use these different shades of meaning, so always consider the full context of the puzzle, including any intersecting words, to determine the precise interpretation intended.