dally crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and the clue is "dally", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your crossword.
Solutions for "dally crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
IDLE: To spend time doing nothing; to be inactive.
5 Letters
DELAY: To put off or postpone to a later time.
6 Letters
LINGER: To stay in a place longer than necessary because of a reluctance to leave.
LOITER: To stand or wait around idly or without apparent purpose.
13 Letters
PROCRASTINATE: To delay or postpone action; put off doing something.
More About "dally crossword"
"Dally" is a common and versatile word in crosswords, often hinting at actions related to wasting time, delaying, or moving slowly. Its roots are Germanic, related to 'dol', meaning 'foolish' or 'slow', which perfectly encapsulates its modern meanings of lingering or trifling.
When you encounter "dally" as a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a cryptic clue hinting at wordplay, or a more straightforward definition? Often, the surrounding letters or other solved words will provide crucial hints to narrow down the possible answers based on length. The word evokes a sense of leisure or, conversely, a lack of productivity, making its synonyms varied and interesting for puzzle setters.
Understanding the nuances of words like "dally" not only helps with crosswords but also enriches vocabulary. It teaches you to look beyond the most obvious definition and consider related concepts like procrastination, idle amusement, or a deliberate slowness. This deeper understanding is key to becoming a more proficient crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always start by noting the number of letters in the answer space. This is the most crucial filter for clues like "dally".
- Consider Synonyms & Antonyms: Think about both direct synonyms (idle, linger) and sometimes, an antonym can lead you to a different perspective on the clue (e.g., the opposite of dally might be rush, prompting a different line of thought in some cryptic clues).
- Check Cross-References: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them! They can quickly confirm or eliminate potential "dally" answers.
- Think about Connotations: "Dally" has a slightly old-fashioned, sometimes romantic connotation (dallying in the park) or a negative one (dallying on work). Different puzzles might lean into different aspects.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'dally' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'dally' typically refers to wasting time, lingering, loitering, or delaying. It often implies a leisurely or unhurried pace, or an act of procrastination.
Are there common synonyms for 'dally' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include 'idle', 'linger', 'loiter', 'delay', and 'procrastinate'. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required by the puzzle.
How can I quickly find the right 'dally' answer if I'm stuck?
First, check the number of letters your puzzle requires. Then, consider common synonyms. If still stuck, use a reliable crossword helper website like Crosswordanswer.co.uk, where you can filter answers by length and get explanations.