delay crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "delay crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "delay crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
STALL: To stop or cause to stop making progress, often intentionally, causing a delay.
DEFER: To put off (an action or event) to a later time; postpone, creating a delay.
PAUSE: A temporary stop in action or speech, which can be a form of delay.
6 Letters
HINDER: To create difficulties for (someone or something), resulting in delay or obstruction.
HOLDUP: A delay; an instance of holding something up, preventing progress.
7 Letters
ADJOURN: Break off (a meeting, legal case, or game) with the intention of resuming it later, thus delaying its conclusion.
8 Letters
POSTPONE: To arrange for (something) to take place at a time later than that first scheduled, causing a delay.
More About "delay crossword clue"
The concept of "delay" is a common and versatile one in crosswords, often appearing in various forms such as verbs, nouns, or even as part of idiomatic expressions. Clues related to 'delay' can range from simple synonyms like 'stall' or 'defer' to more nuanced interpretations involving obstruction or putting off events. Paying close attention to the context and other words in the clue is crucial for pinpointing the exact meaning the puzzle setter intends.
Crossword setters love to play with words that have multiple meanings or subtle differences. For instance, a 'delay' might be accidental, like an unforeseen 'hindrance', or intentional, like deciding to 'postpone' a meeting. Understanding these distinctions can help you narrow down the possibilities, especially when faced with a common word like 'delay' that has many potential answers across different letter counts. Always consider the surrounding letters you already have filled in, as this is often the most reliable guide.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms Broadly: For a clue like "delay," don't just think of direct synonyms. Consider words that imply delay, such as 'hinder' (to cause delay) or 'pause' (a temporary delay).
- Check Word Length: The number of letters is your most powerful tool. If you have "delay" and need a 5-letter word, options like STALL, DEFER, or PAUSE immediately come to mind, eliminating longer possibilities.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is "delay" being used as a verb (to delay) or a noun (a delay)? This can significantly influence the type of answer you're looking for, for example 'ADJOURN' as a verb or 'HOLDUP' as a noun.
- Look for Anagrams or Hidden Words: While less common for simple definitions, sometimes clues can be tricky wordplay. For example, a clue might contain the letters of 'delay' in a jumbled form, or hint at a word that contains 'delay' within it.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my 'delay' answer isn't listed here?
If your answer for 'delay' isn't on our list, consider other synonyms or related concepts. Crossword clues can be tricky, using wordplay, double meanings, or specific contexts. Check the number of letters you have and look for less common synonyms. You can also try searching our site for broader terms related to your clue.
Are there different types of 'delay' in crosswords?
Yes, 'delay' can refer to a physical slowing down (e.g., 'HINDER'), putting off an event (e.g., 'POSTPONE', 'DEFER'), or even a temporary stop (e.g., 'STALL', 'PAUSE'). The specific context of the clue and surrounding letters will often guide you to the correct nuance.
How can I improve my speed in solving crossword clues like 'delay'?
Improving speed comes with practice. Familiarize yourself with common crosswordese, synonyms for frequently used words, and common clue patterns. Don't be afraid to use a few helper letters if you're stuck, and actively try to recall similar clues you've encountered before. Building vocabulary also significantly helps.