delays crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "delays", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions for all word lengths, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and improve your solving skills.
Solutions for "delays crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LAG: To fall behind or cause to slow down.
5 Letters
WAITS: Stays in expectation of something; defers action.
HOLDS: Keeps or detains someone or something.
HINDS: (Less common, but sometimes used contextually) Obstructs or holds back.
6 Letters
STALLS: Causes to stop or make no progress, often intentionally.
PAUSES: Interrupts an action or process briefly.
9 Letters
POSTPONES: Puts off to a later time; defers.
More About "delays crossword clue"
"Delays" is a versatile crossword clue that can point to a variety of answers, from simple verbs like 'LAG' to more complex actions such as 'POSTPONES'. The key to solving this clue often lies in understanding the nuance of the delay—is it an intentional deferral, an unexpected holdup, or simply a slowing of progress? Crossword setters love to play with synonyms for this term, so a broad vocabulary around the concept of slowing down or putting off is highly beneficial.
When you encounter "delays" in a crossword, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a common, daily puzzle, or a more obscure, cryptic one? Daily puzzles will often lean towards direct synonyms, while cryptic clues might use wordplay, anagrams, or hidden meanings related to the concept of time or interruption. Always pay attention to the number of letters required, as this significantly narrows down the possibilities.
This clue can also appear in different forms, such as "causes delays" or "subject to delays," each potentially pointing to different parts of speech or specific actions. By examining the phrasing of the clue and the number of letters, you can effectively navigate the options and pinpoint the precise solution your crossword demands.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: For clues like "delays," think about whether the word is used as a verb (e.g., to delay something) or a noun (e.g., there was a delay). This will influence the type of answer you're looking for.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Before looking at solutions, try to list as many synonyms for "delays" as possible, covering various shades of meaning like 'pause', 'wait', 'hinder', 'detain', 'postpone', 'stall'.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, the answers to intersecting clues can provide crucial letters that help you deduce the correct 'delays' solution, especially when multiple options fit.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: "Delays" can sometimes hint at phrasal verbs like 'HOLDSUP' or 'PUTSOFF', so keep an eye out for longer answers if other letters fit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "delays" mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, "delays" typically refers to words that mean to postpone, hinder, or slow down something, such as 'LAG', 'STALLS', or 'POSTPONES'. The meaning can vary slightly based on the context of the specific clue.
How do I find the right answer for "delays" when I have some letters?
If you have some letters, try filling them into our answer sections for different lengths. Common synonyms for "delays" include "pauses," "waits," "holds," and "stalls." Consider words that fit the given letter pattern.
Are there common word lengths for "delays" answers?
Answers for "delays" can vary widely in length, but common solutions often fall into the 3-6 letter range (e.g., LAG, STALLS, WAITS, HOLDS). Longer answers like "POSTPONES" or "HINDERS" are also possible depending on the puzzle's difficulty and specific clue phrasing.