deceive crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "deceive," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle.
Solutions for "deceive crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DUPE: To trick or fool someone, often for personal gain.
5 Letters
TRICK: An act or scheme intended to deceive or outwit someone.
7 Letters
MISLEAD: To cause someone to have a wrong idea or impression about someone or something.
9 Letters
BAMBOOZLE: To trick or confuse someone, especially by using elaborate or misleading statements.
More About "deceive crossword"
The clue "deceive" is a common one in crosswords, often pointing to a verb that means to cause someone to believe something that is not true, typically for personal advantage. Understanding the nuances between words like "trick," "fool," "mislead," and "dupe" is crucial for selecting the correct answer based on the available letters.
Crossword setters love using such words because they offer a range of synonyms with varying lengths and subtle differences in meaning. Pay close attention to the context of the surrounding clues and any other words in the clue itself, as they might hint at a specific synonym or a more elaborate form of deception, like "bamboozle" or "hoodwink."
Sometimes, "deceive" might even be part of a cryptic clue, where the word itself is hidden or manipulated within the clue text. Always be prepared for wordplay and think beyond direct synonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the answer grid. This is the most crucial piece of information for narrowing down "deceive" synonyms.
- Consider Nuance: While "deceive" is broad, answers like "dupe" imply a victim, while "trick" can be playful or malicious. Think about the specific shade of meaning required by the puzzle's tone.
- Look for Anagrams or Puns: Cryptic crosswords often use "deceive" to hint at an anagram or a pun. For instance, "I'd eve confused (7)" might anagram to 'DECEIVE' itself.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: If you're stuck, fill in any intersecting letters from other clues. Even one correct letter can dramatically help you uncover the right "deceive" answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'deceive' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'deceive' clues often lead to synonyms like 'trick,' 'fool,' 'dupe,' 'mislead,' or 'bamboozle.' The answer will usually be a verb related to causing someone to believe something untrue.
How can I tell the length of a 'deceive' answer?
Crossword clues typically indicate the length of the answer in parentheses or directly after the clue. For 'deceive,' you'd look for (4), (5), (7), or (9) etc., to guide your word choice.
Are there common wordplay tricks with 'deceive' clues?
Yes, 'deceive' can sometimes be part of a pun or a charade. For instance, 'Lie about article' might clue 'ARTICLE' or 'LIE' based on how 'lie' is used (to deceive vs. to recline). Always consider double meanings.