crossword clue influence – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Your definitive guide to solving the crossword clue "influence." Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue influence" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PULL: Informal influence or a strong attraction that sways someone.
SWAY: To control or affect the opinions or actions of someone.
5 Letters
POWER: The ability or capacity to do something or act in a particular way, often implying influence.
6 Letters
AFFECT: To have an effect on; make a difference to or influence something.
IMPACT: The powerful effect that something has on someone or something.
7 Letters
CONTROL: The power to influence or direct people's behavior or the course of events.
More About "crossword clue influence"
The term "influence" in crosswords is a versatile one, often requiring solvers to consider various synonyms that capture its essence, whether as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it refers to the capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself. Examples include personal connections ('pull'), authority ('power'), or the result of an action ('impact').
When "influence" is used as a verb, it implies the act of affecting or swaying. This can range from subtle persuasion ('sway') to directly causing a change ('affect'). Crossword setters love clues like "influence" because they can lead solvers down multiple paths, testing their vocabulary and understanding of nuances in meaning. Paying attention to the context of the clue, especially the presence of other words or hints at a specific part of speech, is crucial.
Understanding the different degrees and types of influence – from a gentle suggestion to forceful coercion – is key to pinpointing the correct answer. The variety of synonyms available for "influence" ensures that it remains a popular and challenging clue in puzzles of all difficulty levels.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Part of Speech: Is "influence" used as a noun (e.g., a power, a force) or a verb (e.g., to affect, to sway)? This distinction is often the most critical factor.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the words accompanying "influence" in the clue can hint at a specific type, such as "subtle influence" or "direct influence."
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While common synonyms like "effect" or "power" might come to mind, consider more nuanced terms like "sway," "pull," or "leverage" depending on the letter count.
- Use Crossing Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer for a tricky clue like "influence" is to use the letters provided by intersecting words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'influence' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'influence' can refer to the power to affect someone or something, often subtly. It can be a noun (e.g., 'power', 'sway', 'pull', 'control', 'impact') or a verb (e.g., 'affect', 'sway', 'guide'). The exact meaning depends on the clue's phrasing and surrounding words.
How can I find synonyms for 'influence' when solving a crossword?
To find synonyms for 'influence', consider its various facets: direct control, subtle persuasion, the effect something has, or a personal connection. Think about common phrases where 'influence' is used. Also, check if the clue implies a noun or a verb, as this significantly narrows down options.
Are there common traps when solving clues like 'influence'?
A common trap is mistaking the part of speech (noun vs. verb). Another is focusing only on direct control when the clue might be hinting at a more subtle form of influence, like 'pull' or 'sway'. Always check the letter count and any crossing letters to confirm your answer.