deface crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "deface crossword", helping you quickly complete your puzzle. We've got answers for all word lengths, from short and snappy to longer, more descriptive terms.
Solutions for "deface crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To spoil the appearance of something, often slightly but noticeably.
4 Letters
RUIN: To damage something so severely that its value or usefulness is lost.
5 Letters
SPOIL: To diminish or destroy the value or quality of something.
6 Letters
DAMAGE: To inflict physical harm on something to the extent that it impairs its value or function.
9 Letters
DISFIGURE: To spoil the appearance of something, especially the face or surface, often in a lasting way.
VANDALIZE: To deliberately destroy or damage public or private property, typically in an act of mischief or malice.
More About "deface crossword"
The clue "deface" in crosswords points to actions that mar, spoil, or otherwise negatively alter the appearance or integrity of an object or surface. It's a versatile term that can refer to anything from a minor blemish to significant damage, making it a favorite for crossword setters to challenge solvers with varying word lengths.
When you see "deface" as a clue, think about its synonyms that fit different letter counts. Common contexts include defacing property (like graffiti on a wall), documents (like crossing out words), or even art. The underlying meaning always relates to causing a negative visual or functional change.
Understanding the nuances between terms like 'mar,' 'ruin,' and 'disfigure' is key. While 'mar' suggests a slight blemish, 'ruin' implies more severe, potentially irreparable harm. 'Disfigure' specifically refers to spoiling the visual form, often of a face or prominent feature, while 'vandalize' suggests intentional, malicious damage to property.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always start by matching the number of letters required for the answer grid. This immediately narrows down your options for a clue like "deface."
- Look for Synonyms & Antonyms: Crosswords often use synonyms. For "deface," think of words that mean to spoil, damage, or disfigure. Sometimes, clues are antonyms, so consider words meaning to restore or beautify if the clue is phrased inversely.
- Check for Contextual Clues: Pay attention to any other words in the clue. Is it "deface artwork" or "deface a document"? This can help you choose between closely related synonyms (e.g., 'erase' might be relevant for documents, 'mar' for general artwork).
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. Wait for intersecting letters from other answers to fill in. These can give you crucial starting points or confirm your suspicions for words like MAR or RUIN.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does 'deface' appear in crosswords?
The concept of 'deface' or its synonyms is fairly common in crosswords, as it allows for a variety of answer lengths and linguistic nuances like 'mar,' 'ruin,' 'spoil,' or 'damage.' Its versatility makes it a frequent clue.
Are there common tricky clues related to 'deface'?
Tricky clues for 'deface' often play on its less common synonyms or a specific context. For example, 'spoil an old record' for 'MAR' or 'damage art' for 'VANDALIZE' could be used. Always consider the specific context of the puzzle.
What's the difference between 'deface' and 'destroy' in crosswords?
While related, 'deface' usually implies superficial damage or alteration to appearance, like graffiti on a wall, whereas 'destroy' implies total obliteration or rendering unusable. Crossword setters will often use the precise meaning to guide you to the correct answer. 'Deface' clues generally lead to words like MAR, RUIN, SPOIL, while 'destroy' might lead to words like RAZE, ANNIHILATE.