decide crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "decide," helping you complete your puzzle with ease. We've gathered all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "decide crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OPT: To make a choice or decision from available alternatives.
4 Letters
RULE: To make an authoritative decision or pronouncement, especially in a court of law or by an official.
5 Letters
ELECT: To choose to do something, or to choose a person for an office by vote.
6 Letters
CHOOSE: To select something or someone out of a number of alternatives.
SETTLE: To resolve a dispute or come to a decision about something, often after discussion.
7 Letters
RESOLVE: To firmly decide to do something, or to find a solution to a problem.
9 Letters
DETERMINE: To definitively establish or decide after careful consideration or investigation.
More About "decide crossword clue"
The clue "decide" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to a wide range of synonyms depending on the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends. It can refer to a personal choice, a formal judgment, a firm resolution, or even the act of bringing something to a conclusion. This richness in meaning is precisely what makes it a popular and sometimes challenging clue.
When encountering "decide" in a puzzle, solvers should think about the context. Is it a decision made by an individual (like OPT or CHOOSE)? Is it a ruling by an authority (like RULE)? Or is it about settling a matter (like SETTLE or RESOLVE)? The letter count is crucial, but so is understanding the different facets of making a decision. Sometimes, the clue might even hint at a process, not just the final act.
Understanding these subtle differences and having a strong vocabulary of synonyms related to decision-making will significantly boost your success with such clues. From simple three-letter answers to more complex nine-letter words, "decide" can truly test a solver's breadth of knowledge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: For clues like "decide," think about the specific type of decision being made. Is it a choice, a ruling, or a resolution? This can help narrow down the possibilities.
- Letter Count is Key: Always refer to the number of letters provided in the grid. This is your primary filter for potential answers, helping you eliminate words that are too long or too short.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If you have any letters filled in from crossing words, use them as vital clues. They often confirm or rule out potential answers for "decide."
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword setters love synonyms. If "decide" is the clue, brainstorm all words that mean the same, and sometimes even their opposites if the clue is tricky or sarcastic.
- Don't Be Afraid to Use a Thesaurus: For a word like "decide" with many variations, a quick look at a thesaurus can spark new ideas and reveal less common but valid synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes "decide" a common crossword clue?
The word "decide" is a very common crossword clue because it has a rich variety of synonyms and nuanced meanings depending on the context. From making a personal choice to issuing a formal judgment, its versatility allows for many different answer words across various lengths.
How can I narrow down answers for "decide" if I'm stuck?
If you're having trouble with 'decide,' first, look at the number of letters required. Then, check if any letters are already filled in from intersecting words. Finally, consider the puzzle's theme or the setter's typical style, as 'decide' can sometimes imply legal rulings (e.g., RULE) or personal choices (e.g., OPT, CHOOSE).
Are there common word patterns or suffixes for words related to 'decide'?
While there isn't one universal pattern, many synonyms for 'decide' are common verbs. You might find words ending in -E (like CHOOSE, RESOLVE), or words with double letters (like SETTLE). Paying attention to these common letter combinations can often provide a useful hint when solving.