detain crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! You've landed on the ultimate resource for the crossword clue "detain". Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "detain crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HOLD: To keep someone back or in custody, often temporarily.
KEEP: To retain possession of or to prevent from leaving.
6 Letters
ARREST: To seize someone by legal authority and take them into custody.
REMAND: To send back (a prisoner or accused person) into custody, especially on an order by a court.
HINDER: To create difficulties for (someone or something), resulting in delay or obstruction.
7 Letters
CONFINE: To restrict a person or thing within certain limits of space or time; imprison.
8 Letters
IMPRISON: To put or keep in prison or a place of detention.
More About "detain crossword clue"
The clue "detain" is a common one in crosswords, often leading to a range of answers depending on the nuance the puzzle setter intends. At its core, "detain" implies holding back, restricting movement, or keeping someone or something in custody. This can be in a legal sense, such as an arrest, or a more general sense, like being held up by traffic.
Puzzle constructors love words like "detain" because they have multiple synonyms and can be used in various contexts – from literal police action to simply delaying a process. When you encounter this clue, consider the length of the required answer and any surrounding words in the clue that might give a hint about the specific type of 'detainment' being referenced, such as 'legal', 'temporarily', or 'in a cell'.
Understanding these subtle differences is key to mastering such clues. Our comprehensive list above covers the most frequent answers you'll encounter, from short common words like HOLD to more specific terms like IMPRISON, giving you all the options at your fingertips.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters required. This is the first and most crucial filter for potential answers like those for "detain".
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of all possible synonyms for "detain". Sometimes, the clue might be a cryptic hint at an antonym, though less common for direct clues like this.
- Look for Context Clues: Does the clue imply a legal setting, a physical barrier, or just a delay? Words like "police," "court," "jail," or "traffic" can significantly narrow down the options for "detain."
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your best friends in confirming or eliminating potential answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'detain' typically imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'detain' often points to words related to holding someone back, keeping them in custody (legally or otherwise), delaying progress, or confining them to a place. Common synonyms like HOLD, ARREST, KEEP, or CONFINE are frequent answers.
How can I distinguish between 'detain' answers like HOLD vs. ARREST?
The distinction usually comes from the surrounding clue context or the number of letters. 'Hold' is more general, implying temporary restraint. 'Arrest' specifically implies legal seizure and custody by authorities. Pay attention to other words in the clue that might hint at legality or formality.
Are there figurative uses of 'detain' in crosswords?
Yes, 'detain' can sometimes be used figuratively, referring to something that delays or holds back progress, rather than a person. For example, 'Bad weather might detain the flight' could lead to answers like DELAY or HINDER. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings.