crossword clue weaken – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "weaken" in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue weaken" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SAP: To gradually undermine or weaken (a person or an institution).
3 Letters
SAG: To lose strength, firmness, or vigor.
5 Letters
DRAIN: To deplete (strength, vitality, or resources).
6 Letters
LESSEN: To diminish in strength, intensity, or value.
8 Letters
ENERVATE: To cause (someone) to feel drained of energy or vitality; weaken.
6 Letters
SOFTEN: To make less harsh, severe, or strong; to mitigate or reduce the impact of.
8 Letters
UNDERCUT: To weaken or undermine (something or someone) surreptitiously.
10 Letters
DEBILITATE: To make (someone) very weak and infirm.
More About "crossword clue weaken"
"Weaken" is a versatile clue in crosswords, often appearing in various contexts. It can refer to a physical decline, a reduction in intensity, or the undermining of an argument or structure. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer from the many synonyms available.
Common themes associated with "weaken" include synonyms for making something less effective, less powerful, or less stable. Clues might hint at a slow process of decay or a sudden loss of strength. Always consider the surrounding letters and any intersecting words to narrow down your options.
From a direct synonym like "LESSEN" to more evocative terms like "ENERVATE" (draining vitality) or "UNDERCUT" (weakening from below), the best answer depends heavily on the specific puzzle's style and the number of letters required. Our comprehensive list provides options for most common lengths.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuances: "Weaken" can have many synonyms. Is the clue referring to physical strength, emotional resolve, a structure, or a process? Understanding the precise context will help you choose the best word.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Always filter potential answers by the exact count required by the puzzle.
- Look for Prefixes/Suffixes: Words like de- (e.g., deplete, debilitate) or un- (e.g., undermine) often signify a reduction or reversal of strength. Keep an eye out for these patterns.
- Cross-Reference: Use intersecting words to confirm your chosen answer. If one letter doesn't fit with another word, your answer might be incorrect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'weaken' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'weaken' clues often point to synonyms like diminish, lessen, impair, or enervate. It can refer to physical strength, emotional resolve, or even the intensity of something.
How can I find synonyms for 'weaken' in a crossword puzzle?
Consider the context of the clue and the number of letters. Think about verbs that imply reduction, depletion, or loss of strength. Common prefixes like 'un-' or 'de-' can also be hints. Tools like a thesaurus or online crossword solvers can help.
Are there different types of 'weaken' clues?
Yes, 'weaken' can appear as a direct synonym clue, part of a phrase, or even cryptically. For instance, 'cause to lose strength' is direct, while 'erode a defense' implies weakening. Pay attention to the part of speech (verb, noun) and any metaphorical meanings.