crossword clue shred – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you will find a comprehensive list of solutions for the crossword clue "shred", categorized by the number of letters. Get the exact answer you need to complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword clue shred" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RIP: To tear or pull something quickly or forcibly apart, often into smaller pieces.
4 Letters
TEAR: To pull or rip (something) apart or to pieces, which results in a shredding action.
5 Letters
MINCE: To cut up or grind (food, especially meat) into very small pieces, similar to shredding.
GRATE: To reduce (food) to small shreds by rubbing it on a grater, a common form of shredding.
6 Letters
SLIVER: A small, thin, narrow piece of something cut or broken off a larger piece, implying a fine shred.
9 Letters
PULVERIZE: To reduce to fine particles, dust, or powder, an intense form of shredding.
More About "crossword clue shred"
"Shred" is a versatile word in crosswords, often appearing with multiple possible answers depending on the context and the number of letters in the solution. It can refer to the act of tearing something, like paper or cloth, into small, irregular pieces, or it can describe the process of cutting food into fine strips, such as cheese or vegetables.
Beyond its literal meanings, "shred" can also imply destroying something, like shredding documents for security, or even a very vigorous performance, especially in music (e.g., 'shredding on a guitar'). Crossword setters leverage these various interpretations to create challenging yet fair clues. Always consider the precise phrasing of the clue and any intersecting letters you might already have.
Understanding the common synonyms for "shred" across different lengths is key to solving these types of clues efficiently. Whether it's a simple RIP or a more complex PULVERIZE, knowing the range of possibilities can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Does "shred" imply a gentle tear, a violent rip, or a mechanical process? The specific context of the puzzle might guide you to a more precise synonym.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Always use letters from solved intersecting clues to narrow down the possibilities for "shred." Even one or two letters can make a big difference.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Familiarize yourself with common answers for words like 'tear', 'cut', and 'destroy' that frequently appear in crosswords, as they often overlap with 'shred'.
- Think About Different Word Forms: Is the answer a verb, a noun, or an adjective? The clue might hint at the required part of speech.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shred' typically mean in crossword puzzles?
In crosswords, 'shred' usually refers to tearing, ripping, or cutting something into small pieces. Synonyms like RIP, TEAR, MINCE, or SLIVER are common answers, depending on the number of letters and the specific nuance implied by the clue.
How can I find answers for 'shred' if I don't know the letter count?
If you don't know the letter count, consider the common lengths for synonyms of 'shred'. Short words like RIP (3 letters) or TEAR (4 letters) are frequent. Longer possibilities include MINCE (5 letters) or SLIVER (6 letters). Try fitting these into your puzzle grid.
Are there different types of 'shredding' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, 'shred' can imply various methods. It might refer to tearing fabric (RIP, TEAR), cutting food (MINCE, GRATE), or even breaking down something completely (PULVERIZE). The context of other clues in the puzzle can often help narrow down the exact meaning.