crossword clue expunge – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Here, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for "crossword clue expunge", helping you conquer your puzzle with ease and precision.
Solutions for "crossword clue expunge" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WIPE: To clean or dry by rubbing; also to remove from existence, fitting the meaning of expunge.
5 Letters
ERASE: To rub out or obliterate (a mark or impression). A direct synonym for expunge, commonly used in puzzles.
6 Letters
DELETE: To remove or obliterate (written or printed matter), especially by drawing a line through it. Often used when referring to records or data.
REMOVE: To take (something) away or off from the position occupied. Closely related to expunge in the sense of getting rid of something.
10 Letters
OBLITERATE: To destroy utterly; wipe out. This strong verb is a perfect, more formal synonym for expunge.
More About "crossword clue expunge"
"Expunge" is a verb that means to erase or remove completely, especially something unwanted or unpleasant. This can refer to literal removal, like deleting an entry from a list, or figurative, such as clearing a memory or a record. In crosswords, it's a popular clue because of its multiple direct synonyms and varying lengths, making it adaptable to different puzzle grids.
Understanding the core meaning of "expunge" – getting rid of something entirely – is key to finding the right answer. Common answers often revolve around actions of deletion, erasure, or complete removal. Pay attention to the letter count required, as it will narrow down possibilities from words like ERASE to OBLITERATE.
The beauty of such a clue lies in its precise yet versatile nature, allowing setters to use it across various difficulties and puzzle styles. It's a fundamental vocabulary word for any seasoned crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required. This is your most immediate and helpful filter for potential answers to clues like "expunge."
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: For verbs like "expunge," brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. Sometimes, a clue might also hint at an antonym, requiring you to think oppositely.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck, try to solve adjacent clues first. The letters that intersect with your tricky clue will often reveal the correct answer by process of elimination.
- Check for Wordplay: While "expunge" is usually direct, some clues use wordplay, puns, or hidden meanings. Always consider if there's a less obvious interpretation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'expunge' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'expunge' typically refers to removing, deleting, erasing, or wiping out something completely. Clues for 'expunge' often lead to answers like ERASE, DELETE, or OBLITERATE, depending on the letter count and the puzzle's specific theme.
Why might a single crossword clue have multiple answers?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers because many words are synonyms or have similar meanings. The correct answer for your specific puzzle always depends on the number of letters required by the grid and any intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills?
To enhance your crossword-solving abilities, regularly practice, pay close attention to the nuances of clue phrasing (e.g., literal vs. figurative, puns, anagrams), expand your vocabulary, and don't hesitate to use resources like Crosswordanswer.co.uk to learn new words and common crossword patterns.