crossword clue encourage – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "encourage", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We've included explanations to ensure you pick the perfect word for your grid.
Solutions for "crossword clue encourage" by Letter Count
4 Letters
URGE: To strongly recommend or persuade someone to do something, often with a sense of pushing forward.
SPUR: To urge forward or encourage an action or event, like a stimulus.
5 Letters
CHEER: To hearten someone or give words of encouragement, often vocally.
6 Letters
FOSTER: To encourage or promote the development of something good; to nurture growth.
7 Letters
INSPIRE: To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, often creatively or morally.
PROMOTE: To further the progress of something (like a cause, venture, or aim); to support or actively encourage.
9 Letters
STIMULATE: To encourage interest or activity in something, often by providing a prompt or incentive.
More About "crossword clue encourage"
The clue "encourage" is a versatile one in crosswords, leading to a range of synonyms that reflect different nuances of providing support or motivation. From a direct "urge" to a more subtle "foster," understanding the context of the puzzle is key. Sometimes the clue might imply a physical act of urging, while other times it might refer to mental or emotional support.
When you encounter "encourage," consider the common synonyms associated with it. Puzzle setters often reuse certain words, and familiarity with this lexicon can give you an edge. Pay attention to the surrounding letters already filled in your grid, as these can provide critical hints to narrow down the possible answers, especially when multiple words share the same letter count.
Ultimately, a successful solve for "encourage" comes from combining your vocabulary knowledge with careful grid analysis. Don't be afraid to try out a word lightly in pencil if you're unsure, and always double-check its meaning against the clue's precise intent.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: "Encourage" can mean many things. Does the clue imply a forceful push (like URGE, SPUR) or a gentle nurturing (like FOSTER)? Consider the tone.
- Check for Intersecting Letters: The letters you've already filled in from crossing words are your best friends. They'll eliminate many possibilities and confirm the correct answer for "encourage."
- Consider Word Lengths First: Always count the spaces available in the grid immediately. This dramatically narrows down your options before you even start thinking of synonyms.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes crossword clues use less common synonyms. If your first thoughts don't fit, think of more obscure or literary words for "encourage."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'encourage' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'encourage' typically points to synonyms meaning to support, urge, promote, or inspire. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters and any intersecting clues that further define the required word.
How do I find the right length answer for 'encourage'?
First, count the number of blank spaces in your crossword grid for the particular clue. Then, look through the list of potential answers for 'encourage' that match that exact letter count. Often, the nuance of the clue or surrounding letters will help you confirm the best fit.
Are there common synonyms that often appear for 'encourage'?
Yes, common synonyms that frequently appear as answers for 'encourage' include URGE, SPUR, CHEER, FOSTER, INSPIRE, PROMOTE, and STIMULATE. These words cover various aspects of encouragement, from direct urging to fostering development or interest.