What are common synonyms for 'hold up' in crosswords?

Common synonyms for 'hold up' in crosswords often include terms like DELAY, HINDER, SUPPORT, PROP, or ROB, depending on the specific nuance of the clue.

How do I determine the correct meaning of 'hold up' in a crossword?

The correct meaning often depends on the number of letters required and the surrounding clues. For example, if it's a short word, 'ROB' or 'PROP' might fit. If it's longer, 'SUPPORT' or 'HINDER' could be the answer. Consider if the clue implies a crime, physical support, or an obstruction.

Are there different types of 'hold up' in crossword clues?

Yes, 'hold up' can refer to several scenarios: to rob (as in a bank), to physically support something (like a roof), to cause a delay or obstruction (as in traffic), or even to endure or last (e.g., 'how long will this hold up?'). Always consider the context.

crossword clue hold up – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions for the clue "crossword clue hold up," organized by letter count to help you quickly solve your puzzle. We aim to provide the most accurate and helpful answers available.

Solutions for "crossword clue hold up" by Letter Count

3 Letters

ROB: To hold up, as in to commit a theft or a stick-up, often involving force or threat.

4 Letters

PROP: To hold up or support something, preventing it from falling or collapsing.

5 Letters

DELAY: To hold up progress or cause something to be late; to postpone an event.

STALL: To hold up or cause a cessation of progress; to intentionally slow down or stop an action.

6 Letters

HINDER: To hold up or obstruct progress, making it difficult for someone or something to move forward.

ENDURE: To hold up or last through time; to withstand difficulties or hardship.

7 Letters

SUPPORT: To hold up or bear the weight of something; to provide assistance or encouragement.

SUSTAIN: To hold up or keep something in existence; to maintain or prolong.

More About "crossword clue hold up"

"Hold up" is a fascinating and frequently used phrase in English, primarily because of its multiple distinct meanings. In the context of crosswords, this versatility makes it a popular clue, as setters can draw upon its various interpretations to challenge solvers. The most common meanings revolve around: to delay or obstruct (e.g., traffic held up by an accident), to physically support something (e.g., a pillar holding up the roof), or to rob (e.g., a bank hold-up).

Understanding these different facets is key to cracking the clue. A crossword clue for "hold up" might be followed by a synonym like "impede" (pointing to DELAY or HINDER), a phrase like "keep from falling" (suggesting PROP or SUPPORT), or even a hint at a crime (leading to ROB). Always consider the surrounding words in the clue and the number of letters required for the answer, as these are crucial indicators for narrowing down the possibilities.

Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide not just the answers, but also the insights into why certain words fit. By presenting answers across various lengths and explaining their relevance to "hold up," we aim to enhance your crossword-solving skills and deepen your understanding of the English language's nuances.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Word Length: The first step is always to count the empty squares. This immediately eliminates many possibilities for "hold up" and helps you focus on words of the correct length, like a 3-letter word (ROB) versus a 7-letter word (SUPPORT).
Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, including "hold up," are polysemous (have multiple meanings). If an answer doesn't immediately click, cycle through the different interpretations of "hold up" (delay, support, rob, endure) and see if any fit the given letters or theme of the puzzle.
Look for Companion Clues: Sometimes, another clue in the puzzle might hint at a theme or a specific type of vocabulary. For instance, if other clues relate to crime, "ROB" might be more likely. If they relate to construction, "PROP" or "SUPPORT" could be the intended answer.
Use Cross-References: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as a strong guide. Even one correct letter can confirm or rule out a potential answer for "hold up."

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'hold up' typically mean in a crossword clue?

'Hold up' in crossword clues often refers to one of three main concepts: to delay or obstruct (e.g., a traffic 'hold up'), to physically support something (e.g., a post 'holds up' a beam), or to commit a robbery (e.g., a bank 'hold up'). The specific answer depends on the number of letters and any additional context in the clue.

How can I differentiate between the different meanings of 'hold up' when solving?

Pay close attention to the word count, which is your primary filter. After that, look for subtle hints in the clue itself. Does it imply an action (ROB), a state (DELAY), or a function (SUPPORT)? Also, consider how the answer intersects with other words you've already filled in.

Are there any obscure meanings of 'hold up' that appear in crosswords?

While less common, 'hold up' can also mean to endure or last (as in 'how well does this material hold up?') or to present something for inspection. In more challenging crosswords, these less obvious meanings might be used, so it's good to keep them in mind as a last resort.