crossword clue relief – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword clue relief", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by length, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Dive in to find your solution and enhance your crossword-solving skills!
Solutions for "crossword clue relief" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AID: Help or support, often providing comfort or assistance.
4 Letters
EASE: Freedom from difficulty or discomfort; a state of relaxation.
5 Letters
BREAK: A pause from work or difficulty; a short period of rest.
6 Letters
SOLACE: Comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness.
7 Letters
COMFORT: A state of physical or mental well-being; alleviation of distress or pain.
RESPITE: A short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.
ANODYNE: Something that soothes or relieves pain; a pain-relieving drug.
More About "crossword clue relief"
"Relief" is a versatile word in the English language, which makes it a frequent and sometimes tricky clue in crosswords. It can broadly mean the alleviation of pain, distress, or hardship, often associated with a feeling of comfort or ease. This is perhaps its most common usage in daily conversation and, consequently, in crossword puzzles. Think of the 'relief' felt after a long day's work or after a headache subsides.
Beyond personal comfort, 'relief' can also refer to aid or assistance given, such as disaster relief efforts or tax relief measures. In a more artistic context, it describes a sculptural technique where figures project from a background, known as 'bas-relief' or 'alto-relief'. In crosswords, paying attention to the specific context of the clue, any accompanying words, and especially the length of the required answer, is key to distinguishing between these various meanings and finding the correct solution.
Understanding the nuances of 'relief' can significantly improve your ability to tackle a wide range of crossword clues, from simple synonyms to more cryptic interpretations. Keep an open mind to its multiple definitions and you'll often find the answer clicks into place.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: Don't get stuck on the first meaning of a word that comes to mind. 'Relief', for example, has many connotations from comfort to aid to a break.
- Check letter count carefully: The exact number of letters is your most valuable hint. If your answer doesn't fit, it's incorrect, no matter how good it sounds.
- Use crossing letters: Fill in any intersecting words first. These letters will act as powerful constraints, often revealing the correct answer for your tricky clue.
- Think about parts of speech: Is the clue a noun, verb, or adjective? This can help you narrow down suitable answers, as crossword answers typically match the part of speech of the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'relief' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'relief' commonly refers to alleviation from pain, distress, or burden (e.g., EASE, COMFORT, SOLACE). It can also denote a temporary break (RESPITE, BREAK) or assistance (AID). Less commonly, it might refer to sculptural projection (RELIEF work) or financial aid (TAX BREAK), depending on the clue's context.
Are there different types of 'relief' clues?
Yes, 'relief' can be clued in several ways. It might indicate emotional comfort ('solace', 'balm'), physical alleviation ('ease', 'anodyne'), a break from work ('respite', 'break'), or even a replacement in a team ('substitute', 'stand-in'). The specific context within the crossword puzzle, especially other crossing letters, is crucial for determining the exact meaning.
How can I find the right 'relief' answer quickly?
To quickly find the correct answer for 'relief', first consider the number of letters required. Then, look at any crossing letters you've already solved; these will severely narrow down the possibilities. Finally, think about the broader theme or other clues in the puzzle for contextual hints. For instance, if the puzzle has a medical theme, 'anodyne' might be more likely than 'tax break'.