crossword clue penetrate – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Your ultimate resource for solving the crossword clue "crossword clue penetrate". Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to crack your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue penetrate" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BORE: To make a hole in something, often with a drilling tool.
5 Letters
ENTER: To go into or through something; to gain admittance.
PROBE: To physically explore or examine something with a probe, or to investigate something deeply.
6 Letters
PIERCE: To make a hole in or through something with a sharp instrument.
INVADE: To enter a place, area, or entity forcefully and in large numbers, often with hostile intent.
8 Letters
PERMEATE: To spread throughout (something); to pervade.
10 Letters
INFILTRATE: To secretly enter or gain access to an organization or place, especially in order to acquire secret information or for subversive purposes.
More About "crossword clue penetrate"
The clue "penetrate" is a versatile one in crosswords, often appearing in both literal and figurative contexts. Literally, it refers to passing into or through something, such as 'pierce' or 'bore.' In a more abstract sense, it can mean to understand deeply, as in 'grasp' or 'comprehend,' or to covertly enter, like 'infiltrate' or 'invade.'
When encountering this clue, always consider the surrounding letters already filled in your puzzle. This can instantly narrow down the possibilities among the various synonyms. For instance, if you have an 'E' and an 'R' at the beginning and end respectively for a 5-letter word, 'ENTER' becomes a strong candidate. Understanding the subtle nuances between synonyms is key to mastering these types of clues.
Crossword setters love to play on words, so 'penetrate' might also refer to a 'penetrating gaze' (SHARP, KEEN) or a 'penetrating insight' (DEEP, ACUTE). Always be open to the broader implications of the word to ensure you find the perfect fit for your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by checking the number of letters in the answer box. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and guides your thought process.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters that are already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed points are your best friends in narrowing down options and confirming answers.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often rely on synonyms, but sometimes antonyms or wordplay (like homophones or anagrams) are used. For a clue like 'penetrate,' consider both direct synonyms and words that describe the *effect* of penetrating.
- Check for Contextual Clues: The clue might hint at a specific domain (e.g., military, medical, abstract thought). For 'penetrate,' a military context might suggest 'INFILTRATE,' while a general one could mean 'ENTER.'
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for "penetrate" in crosswords?
The most common answers for "penetrate" tend to be shorter, more direct synonyms such as ENTER, PIERCE, or PROBE. However, longer answers like PERMEATE or INFILTRATE are also frequent, depending on the puzzle's complexity and theme.
How can I differentiate between similar answers for "penetrate"?
The key is context and letter count. For example, 'BORE' implies a specific tool, while 'PIERCE' suggests a sharp object. 'ENTER' is generic movement, while 'INFILTRATE' implies secrecy. Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue that hint at these distinctions.
Are there any tricky or cryptic uses of "penetrate" in crosswords?
Absolutely! "Penetrate" can be used cryptically. For instance, it might refer to 'getting through' a tough problem (SOLVE), or a 'penetrating sound' (LOUD, SHARP). Always be prepared for a lateral thinking approach when solving cryptic crosswords.