crossword excuse – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword excuse", 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 boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "crossword excuse" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ALIBI: A common word for a reason or excuse given for one's actions, often implying one was elsewhere.
STALL: To delay or put off action, which can serve as an excuse to avoid a task or commitment.
6 Letters
DAWDLE: To waste time or be slow, often used as an excuse for not completing a task promptly.
7 Letters
PRETEXT: A reason given in justification of a course of action that is not the real reason; a deceptive excuse.
EVASION: The action of avoiding something, often by providing a reason or excuse.
15 Letters
PROCRASTINATION: The action of delaying or postponing something, which is a common excuse for unfinished work or unattempted tasks.
More About "crossword excuse"
The term "crossword excuse" points to words that typically describe reasons, often unsatisfactory ones, for not doing something or for delaying an action. In the world of crosswords, these clues often test your ability to think about synonyms for avoidance, delay, or false pretenses.
Understanding the nuance of such words like 'alibi' (a reason for absence), 'pretext' (a false reason), or 'procrastination' (delaying action) is key. Crossword constructors love to use these concepts because they allow for clever and indirect cluing, challenging solvers to look beyond the obvious.
When you encounter a clue like this, consider words that imply a lack of effort, a delay, or a fabricated reason. These answers are frequently found in general knowledge crosswords and can span various lengths, making them versatile solutions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly learn new synonyms for common concepts like "delay," "avoidance," "reason," or "explanation." This broadens your mental dictionary for crossword clues.
- Consider Nuance: Pay attention to subtle differences in meaning. Is the excuse a lie (pretext)? Is it a delay (stall)? Is it simply not starting (procrastination)? The exact nuance helps narrow down answers.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in your potential answer against the grid. This is a critical step that can confirm or eliminate possibilities, especially when multiple synonyms exist.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good crossword excuse?
A good crossword excuse is often a word that implies delay, avoidance, or a false reason, such as 'alibi', 'pretext', or 'evasion'. It might also refer to general reasons for not completing a task like 'procrastination' or 'stall'.
How can I avoid needing a crossword excuse?
To avoid needing an excuse, focus on consistent practice, expanding your vocabulary, and learning common crossword patterns and clue types. Utilizing online resources like this one for tough clues can also help!
Are crossword excuses common in puzzles?
Yes, terms related to excuses, delays, or avoidance are quite common crossword fodder, often clued indirectly or through synonyms. They test your ability to think synonymously and laterally.