crossword clue stretches – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "crossword clue stretches" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue stretches" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SPANS: To extend across a space or period of time, such as a bridge spanning a river.
7 Letters
EXTENDS: To make something longer or wider; to reach out, as in an arm or a land mass.
REACHES: To stretch out an arm or hand; to arrive at a destination or extend over an area.
EXPANDS: To become or make larger or more extensive; to increase in size, volume, or scope.
LIMBERS: To warm up and become flexible, as in preparing one's body for exercise or movement.
9 Letters
ELONGATES: To make or become longer, often in a drawn-out or protracted fashion.
More About "crossword clue stretches"
"Stretches" is a versatile word that can denote various actions or states in everyday language, and this flexibility is often mirrored in crossword clues. At its core, it speaks to an increase in length, scope, or duration. This can be a physical action, like a person stretching their limbs, or a descriptive term, such as a road that "stretches" for miles.
In the context of crosswords, clues like "stretches" require solvers to consider synonyms that encompass these different meanings. Answers could range from words describing physical extension (like EXTENDS or ELONGATES), to those indicating an increase in size (EXPANDS), or even words related to preparation or reach (LIMBERS, REACHES). The key to solving such clues lies in examining the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends, often guided by the number of letters required and any intersecting words.
Understanding the multiple facets of "stretches" not only aids in solving the current puzzle but also sharpens your overall crossword-solving skills, allowing you to anticipate similar wordplay in future challenges. It's a prime example of how seemingly simple words can open up a wide array of potential answers, each subtly different.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms broadly: For action verbs like "stretches," think beyond direct synonyms. Consider related concepts like extending, growing, reaching, spanning, or even preparing physically.
- Pay attention to tense and number: The clue "stretches" is plural and present tense. Ensure your answer matches this. An answer like 'STRETCHED' (past tense) or 'STRETCH' (singular) would be incorrect, even if the core meaning is similar.
- Use intersecting letters: If you've filled in some letters from other clues, use them as a guide. They will significantly narrow down the possibilities for "stretches," helping you confirm the correct answer by its fit within the grid.
- Think about contexts: Does the clue hint at a physical stretch, a time stretch, or a geographical stretch? For instance, "stretches of land" might lead to 'SPANS' or 'EXPANSE'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "stretches" typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, "stretches" often implies concepts of extending, expanding, reaching, or covering a certain distance or period. It can refer to physical elongation, an increase in size, or even the act of preparing muscles for activity. Contextual clues nearby are crucial to pinpointing the exact meaning.
How can I determine the correct length of the answer for "stretches"?
The correct length for the answer to "stretches" is determined by the number of empty squares available in the crossword grid. If multiple answers fit the clue, the grid's constraints will guide you to the one with the correct letter count. Our page lists answers by their exact letter count to help simplify this process.
Are there different types of "stretches" in crossword puzzles?
Yes, "stretches" can appear in various forms. It might be a straightforward synonym, a clue part of a longer phrase (e.g., 'stretches out'), or even a cryptic indicator. For example, it could point to a word meaning 'extends time' or 'a long expanse of land.' Always consider the wordplay and potential double meanings common in crosswords.