discourages crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "discourages crossword". Whether you're stuck or just looking to verify your solution, we've got you covered with options across various letter counts.
Solutions for "discourages crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DETER: To discourage someone from doing something by instilling doubt or fear.
7 Letters
HINDERS: To create difficulties for (someone or something), resulting in delay or obstruction; which often discourages progress.
9 Letters
DISSUADES: To persuade someone not to take a particular course of action, which is a direct form of discouragement.
More About "discourages crossword"
The clue "discourages" in a crossword puzzle is a classic example of a verb clue that requires careful thought about synonyms and their precise meaning. It asks for a word that means to lessen the enthusiasm, confidence, or courage of someone, or to prevent an action through a similar effect. Common answers often revolve around actions that actively stop or deter someone, or passively make a task seem less appealing.
When solving for such a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a cryptic clue where 'discourages' might be part of a wordplay, or is it a straightforward definition? In definition clues, look for words that directly mean to put someone off, or to make something less likely to happen. The length of the answer slot is your best friend here, as many synonyms might fit semantically but only one will match the letter count.
Understanding the nuances between words like DETER, HINDERS, and DISSUADES is key. 'Deter' implies prevention through fear or doubt, 'hinders' suggests obstruction that might lead to discouragement, and 'dissuades' is more about direct persuasion not to do something. Each has its own shade of meaning, and often, the setter is looking for the most precise fit given the puzzle's theme or other intersecting words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: "Discourages" is a verb in the present tense. Your answer should also be a present tense verb (e.g., DETER, HINDERS, DISSUADES, not DETERRED or HINDERING).
- Consider Nuances and Synonyms: Brainstorm a wide range of synonyms for the clue. Don't just think of the most obvious ones. Sometimes, a less common but perfectly fitting synonym is the intended answer, especially if a common one doesn't fit the letter count.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Always use any letters you've filled in from crossing words. These are the most powerful hints you have, quickly eliminating words that don't fit the pattern.
- Think About Homophones and Puns (for Cryptic Clues): If it's a cryptic crossword, "discourages" might sound like another phrase or have a double meaning. Always be alert for wordplay.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right synonym for a crossword clue like "discourages"?
When encountering a verb clue like 'discourages', focus on the precise nuance of the action. 'Discourages' can mean to deter, to hinder, to dissuade, or to dampen spirits. Always consider the letter count required and any intersecting letters you already have from other clues to narrow down the possibilities. Look for synonyms that match the tense and number of the clue.
Why are verb clues like "discourages" sometimes tricky in crosswords?
Verb clues can be tricky because many verbs have a wide array of synonyms, and their precise meaning can vary slightly depending on context. Additionally, ensuring the answer matches the clue's tense (e.g., present tense for 'discourages') and whether it's singular or plural is crucial. A good strategy is to brainstorm several synonyms and then check them against the provided letter count.
What if I have multiple possible answers for "discourages" that fit the meaning?
It's common to find multiple words that could fit a clue semantically. This is where the specific constraints of the crossword come into play. The most important factors are the number of letters in the answer slot and any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. Use these constraints to eliminate incorrect options and confirm the correct word.