deflect crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "deflect crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "deflect crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WARD: To turn aside or repel, often used in the phrase "ward off."
TURN: To move in a different direction; to cause to move in a different direction.
VEER: To change direction suddenly.
5 Letters
PARRY: To ward off (a weapon or attack) with a countermove.
AVERT: To turn away (one's eyes or thoughts); to prevent or ward off (an unwelcome occurrence).
6 Letters
DIVERT: To cause (someone or something) to change course or turn from one direction to another.
7 Letters
DEFLECT: To cause (something) to change direction from an initial path; to turn aside.
8 Letters
REDIRECT: To direct (something) to a new or different place or purpose.
More About "deflect crossword clue"
The clue "deflect" is a common one in crosswords, often appearing in various forms and contexts. It broadly refers to the act of changing the direction of something, whether it's a physical object, an argument, or even a question. The specific answer depends heavily on the number of letters required and the surrounding words in the puzzle, which often provide additional context or hints.
Understanding synonyms for "deflect" such as "parry," "avert," "ward," "divert," and "redirect" is key to solving this type of clue. These words all carry the core meaning of turning something aside, but each has its own subtle nuance. For instance, "parry" often implies a skillful, defensive move, while "divert" can mean a simple change of course or a distraction.
When encountering "deflect" in a crossword, always consider the flow of the puzzle and any other given letters. Is it an action word for a person, or a description of an object's path? The more you solve puzzles, the more familiar you'll become with the patterns and common answers for clues like this, making future puzzles easier to conquer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the surrounding clues and any letters you've already filled in. These can often eliminate many potential answers, guiding you towards the correct one for "deflect."
- Consider Nuance: While many words can mean "deflect," pay attention to the subtle differences. Does the clue imply a forceful action (PARRY), a turning away (AVERT), or a simple change of course (DIVERT)?
- Check Word Lengths: Your first step should always be to match potential answers with the required number of letters. This narrows down the possibilities significantly, especially for a clue with multiple synonyms like "deflect."
- Think Common Phrases: Sometimes clues imply a phrase. For example, "deflect a blow" might lead directly to "WARD" if the clue's wording suggests it.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find answers to difficult crossword clues?
To find answers for challenging crossword clues, consider the number of letters, common synonyms, and the context of the puzzle (e.g., specific theme, era). Online crossword solvers and specialized websites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk can provide instant solutions and explanations.
What does 'deflect' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'deflect' typically refers to turning something aside, diverting its course, or warding off an attack or question. Common answers often include synonyms like PARRY, AVERT, WARD, or DIVERT, depending on the letter count and specific nuance required by the clue.
Why are there often multiple answers for the same crossword clue?
Multiple answers for a single crossword clue arise because words can have several synonyms, different nuances, or be used in various contexts. Additionally, different puzzles might use the same clue with varying required letter counts, leading to a range of valid solutions. Crossword puzzles also often have recurring themes and common answer words.