crossword clue sully – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "sully," along with explanations and helpful tips to conquer your next puzzle. We've compiled all possible answers to help you quickly complete your crossword.
Solutions for "crossword clue sully" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To damage or spoil something, often its appearance or quality.
5 Letters
STAIN: To mark or discolor something with a spot or streak, often used metaphorically for reputation.
TAINT: To contaminate or pollute something, or to affect it with an undesirable quality.
6 Letters
DEFILE: To spoil the purity or appearance of something, or to desecrate or pollute.
7 Letters
POLLUTE: To contaminate something with harmful substances, or to corrupt moral purity.
More About "crossword clue sully"
"Sully" is a verb that means to damage the purity or integrity of something; to defile, dirty, or tarnish. In crosswords, it frequently appears as a clue for synonyms related to spoiling, discrediting, or making something impure, whether literally or figuratively. The figurative sense often relates to one's reputation or character.
Understanding the nuances of "sully" can help you narrow down potential answers. While "dirty" or "stain" might be direct physical actions, words like "taint" or "blemish" often imply a more subtle or reputational damage. Crossword constructors love to play on these different shades of meaning, so always consider the broader context of your puzzle.
The variety of synonyms available for "sully" makes it a versatile clue, appearing in puzzles of all difficulty levels. From concise three-letter words to longer, more descriptive terms, being familiar with this word's many interpretations is a key skill for any crossword enthusiast.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always start by matching the number of letters. This is the single most important filter when multiple answers exist for a clue like "sully."
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters revealed by other solved clues. If an answer like "STAIN" fits for "sully" but the 3rd letter is 'E' from another clue, then "STAIN" is incorrect, and you might need "TAINT" instead.
- Consider the Clue's Tone: Some crosswords lean towards more formal or archaic language. "Defile" might be preferred over "dirty" in a more challenging or traditionally styled puzzle.
- Think of Homonyms and Puns: While not directly applicable to "sully," always be aware that some clues are wordplay. Ensure you're not missing a trick before moving on to less common synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sully' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'sully' typically refers to actions that tarnish, spoil, or defile something, whether it's a physical object, a reputation, or a concept. Synonyms like stain, mar, defile, or taint are common answers.
How can I identify the correct answer for 'sully' when multiple options fit?
Look for intersecting letters from other clues. The number of letters required for the answer is also crucial. Pay attention to the specific nuance of the clue's phrasing; sometimes, a clue might hint at a more literal or figurative meaning of 'sully'.
Are there common word lengths for 'sully' answers?
Yes, common answers for 'sully' range from 3 letters (e.g., MAR) to 7 letters (e.g., POLLUTE) or more. The specific puzzle's constraints will dictate the length.