crossword clue lengthen – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here, you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "crossword clue lengthen". We provide answers organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you understand and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue lengthen" by Letter Count
6 Letters
EXTEND: To stretch out or increase the length or duration of.
EXPAND: To become or make larger or more extensive.
7 Letters
PROLONG: To make something last longer; extend the duration of.
STRETCH: To pull or be pulled into a longer, wider, or more open shape.
DRAGOUT: To cause something to last for a longer time than necessary.
8 Letters
ELONGATE: To make something longer, especially in relation to its width.
More About "crossword clue lengthen"
The clue "lengthen" is a common one in crosswords, often appearing in various forms to challenge solvers. It primarily refers to increasing the length or duration of something. Understanding the subtle nuances of synonyms is key to choosing the correct answer among multiple possibilities. For instance, 'PROLONG' emphasizes duration, while 'ELONGATE' points to physical length.
Crossword setters love to play with context. Sometimes 'lengthen' might refer to an abstract concept, like 'lengthen a speech' (PROLONG), and other times to a physical object, like 'lengthen a road' (EXTEND). Always consider the surrounding words in the clue for additional hints.
Our goal is to provide not just the answer, but also the reasoning behind it, helping you improve your crossword-solving skills for future puzzles. By reviewing these explanations, you'll build a stronger vocabulary and a deeper understanding of how clues are constructed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This is your primary filter for potential answers.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: For a clue like 'lengthen', think about all possible synonyms and their subtle differences. 'Extend' is broad, 'prolong' is time-related, 'elongate' is shape-related.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to guess the entire word. If you have letters from intersecting clues, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers.
- Think About Context: If the clue provides additional context (e.g., 'lengthen a story'), this can often guide you to the most appropriate synonym.
- Check for Homophones/Puns (if applicable): While less common for 'lengthen', always be aware of potential wordplay in clues that might lead to unexpected answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'lengthen' typically mean in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'lengthen' often refers to extending something in time or physical dimension. Common answers include synonyms like PROLONG, EXTEND, ELONGATE, or STRETCH. The exact word depends on the letter count and context provided by other intersecting clues.
How can I narrow down the options for 'lengthen'?
To narrow down options, first check the number of letters required. Then, consider the specific nuance of the clue. For instance, 'lengthen a speech' might point to PROLONG, while 'lengthen a garment' might suggest ELONGATE. Also, use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words.
Are there any common misinterpretations of 'lengthen' in crosswords?
One common misinterpretation is confusing 'lengthen' with 'widen' or 'broaden'. While some words like EXPAND can overlap, 'lengthen' primarily implies increasing an object's length or duration, not necessarily its overall size or girth, unless explicitly stated in the clue.