crossword clue sidestep – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "sidestep" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "crossword clue sidestep" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SHUN: To persistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone or something through antipathy or caution.
5 Letters
DODGE: To avoid something by a quick, sudden movement, or to evade a question or responsibility.
EVADE: To escape or avoid, especially by cleverness or trickery; to elude.
ELUDE: To skillfully escape or avoid something or someone.
6 Letters
BYPASS: To go around or avoid an obstacle, a problem, or a process.
10 Letters
CIRCUMVENT: To find a way around an obstacle or difficulty; to evade by artful maneuvering.
More About "crossword clue sidestep"
The clue "sidestep" is a classic example of how crossword setters use verbs of movement and avoidance to challenge solvers. While it literally means to step to the side, in crosswords, it often extends to metaphorical avoidance – like sidestepping an issue, a duty, or a confrontation. This broader interpretation allows for a rich variety of synonyms.
Understanding the nuances of "sidestep" helps unlock not just the physical actions of dodging or eluding, but also the more abstract concepts of circumventing rules or evading responsibilities. Pay close attention to the number of letters and any surrounding clues for context, as this can narrow down whether the answer refers to a direct physical action or a more subtle form of evasion.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms carefully: For clues like "sidestep," always brainstorm a wide range of synonyms related to avoidance, evasion, and circumvention, not just literal side movements.
- Check intersecting letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to help confirm or narrow down the possibilities for the "sidestep" clue.
- Think figuratively: Many crossword clues, including "sidestep," can have figurative meanings. If a literal answer doesn't fit, consider a more abstract interpretation of avoiding something.
- Use a thesaurus: If you're truly stuck, a thesaurus can be an invaluable tool to discover less common synonyms that might be the intended answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "sidestep" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "sidestep" usually points to answers related to avoiding, evading, or circumventing. Common synonyms include dodge, bypass, elude, and shun, often implying a physical movement or a clever way to avoid a direct confrontation or issue.
Are there common traps when solving clues like "sidestep"?
A common trap is focusing only on the literal "step to the side" meaning. Crossword setters often use "sidestep" to refer to metaphorical avoidance, like avoiding a topic or responsibility. Always consider synonyms for evade, elude, and deflect, not just physical movement.
How can I improve my vocabulary for "avoidance" clues?
To expand your vocabulary for clues like "sidestep," regularly use a thesaurus for terms like "avoid," "evade," "circumvent," "dodge," and "elude." Paying attention to answer patterns in past puzzles also helps; certain words appear frequently due to their versatile meanings.