curb crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue 'curb'. Whether you're looking to stop, restrain, or simply find the edge, we have the answers you need, organized by word length for quick assistance.
Solutions for "curb crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LIP: Refers to the edge or border, like the lip of a curb, often used in a more literal sense.
4 Letters
REIN: To control or guide, similar to holding the reins of a horse to 'curb' its movement.
5 Letters
CHECK: To stop, halt, or control, as in 'check' an impulse or movement.
6 Letters
HINDER: To create difficulties for someone or something, impeding their progress or action, akin to 'curbing' their efforts.
7 Letters
CONTROL: To exercise power or influence over something, often implying limiting or directing it.
8 Letters
RESTRAIN: To prevent from doing something; keep under control or within limits, a direct synonym for 'curb'.
More About "curb crossword puzzle clue"
'Curb' is a fascinating word in crosswords because of its versatility. It can act as a verb, meaning to restrain or control something, as in 'curb your enthusiasm' or 'curb inflation'. This is the more common usage in everyday language and often in puzzles, leading to answers like REIN, CHECK, or LIMIT.
However, 'curb' can also be a noun, referring to the raised edge separating the sidewalk from the roadway. This literal interpretation opens up a completely different set of answers, such as LIP, EDGE, or VERGE. Puzzle setters love to play on these dual meanings, making it essential for solvers to consider the context provided by the rest of the clue and the number of letters in the answer.
Understanding which meaning is intended is key to cracking 'curb' clues. Always ask yourself: Is the clue asking for a synonym for 'stop/limit', or is it describing a physical boundary? The context, combined with the length of the word you need, will usually guide you to the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider both meanings: Remember that 'curb' can mean both to restrain (verb) and a raised edge of a road (noun). Always check if the clue leans towards an action or a physical object.
- Look at surrounding letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, they can strongly hint at which meaning of 'curb' is intended, especially for shorter answers like LIP or REIN.
- Think about parts of speech: Does the clue imply a verb (e.g., 'hold back') or a noun (e.g., 'street edge')? This distinction is vital for accurate solutions and can quickly rule out many possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'curb' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'curb' in crosswords often relate to controlling, restricting, or stopping something. Look for words like REIN, CHECK, HALT, LIMIT, HINDER, or ABATE. Depending on the context, it could also refer to the physical edge of a road, so words like EDGE, LIP, or VERGE might apply.
Does 'curb' only refer to limiting something?
No, 'curb' has a dual meaning which crossword setters love to exploit. While it commonly means to restrain or control (as a verb), it also refers to the concrete border along the edge of a street or sidewalk (as a noun). Always consider both possibilities when solving a 'curb' clue.
How can the number of letters help me solve 'curb' clues?
The number of letters is crucial! If the clue implies restriction, a 4-letter answer might be REIN, while a 5-letter answer could be CHECK or LIMIT. If it's about the physical edge, 3-letter LIP or 4-letter EDGE are possibilities. Knowing the exact length narrows down the options significantly and helps pinpoint the correct meaning.