crossword clue put down – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "crossword clue put down" and need a quick solution or a deeper understanding, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, explanations, and helpful tips to conquer your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue put down" by Letter Count
9 Letters
EUTHANIZE: To humanely kill an animal, often referred to as 'putting down' a pet due to old age or illness.
8 Letters
SUPPRESS: To forcibly put an end to something, such as a rebellion, a riot, or even a feeling or thought.
6 Letters
DEPOSE: To remove from office suddenly and forcefully, especially a ruler or a leader, effectively 'putting them down' from power.
DEMEAN: To cause someone to lose their dignity and respect, often by belittling them or making them feel inferior, which is a way of 'putting them down' verbally.
5 Letters
LOWER: To move something to a less high position; to reduce the level or amount of something, literally 'putting it down'.
ABATE: To become less intense or widespread, or to lessen a nuisance or problem. For instance, to 'put down' a storm means to abate its fury.
More About "crossword clue put down"
"Put down" is a versatile phrase in the English language, and its various meanings make it a popular and often tricky crossword clue. It can imply suppression, termination, humiliation, or simply placing an object on a surface. Recognising which specific nuance the clue is aiming for is key to finding the correct answer.
For instance, when an animal is "put down," it means it is humanely euthanized. When a rebellion is "put down," it means it is suppressed by force. If someone "puts down" another person, they are belittling or insulting them. This wide range of interpretations means that setters have ample opportunity to create clever and challenging clues around this phrase.
Context is everything. Always consider the surrounding words in the clue, the grid's existing letters, and the puzzle's theme (if any) to pinpoint the exact meaning intended. Keep an open mind to both literal and figurative interpretations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "put down," a 9-letter answer might suggest EUTHANIZE, while a shorter one like LOWER (5 letters) or DEPOSE (6 letters) points to other meanings.
- Check for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword setters often use synonyms or phrases that imply the opposite meaning. Think broadly about words related to 'raising' or 'building up' to help eliminate possibilities for 'put down'.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: "Put down" is a phrasal verb, and setters love to play on these. Think about other phrasal verbs starting with 'put' that might relate to the clue's meaning.
- Look at the Punctuation: Sometimes, a question mark or an exclamation mark can indicate a pun or a more playful meaning for the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'put down' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'put down' can have several meanings, leading to diverse answers. It might refer to: reducing something (LOWER, ABATE), stopping something forcibly (SUPPRESS), ending a life (EUTHANIZE, SLAY), or belittling someone (DEMEAN, CRITICIZE). The specific context or accompanying words in the clue usually narrow down the possibilities.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'put down'?
Look at the number of letters required and any crossing letters you already have. For example, if you need a 9-letter word for 'put down an animal', EUTHANIZE is a strong candidate. If it's a 6-letter word for 'put down a ruler', DEPOSE fits well. Also, consider the setter's style – some clues might be more literal, others more metaphorical.
Are there common tricks related to 'put down' clues?
One common trick is the double meaning, where 'put down' could refer to literally placing something on a surface (e.g., 'SET') versus the more figurative meanings like suppress or insult. Pay attention to prepositions or adverbs in the clue, as they can significantly alter the required meaning. For instance, 'put down roots' would lead to a very different answer than 'put down a rebellion'.