How do I determine the correct length for a 'drive away' clue?

The length of the answer is crucial! Look at the number of blank squares provided in your crossword puzzle. Sometimes, a clue like 'drive away' might have multiple synonyms of different lengths (e.g., 'REPEL' is 5 letters, 'DISPEL' is 6). Cross-referencing with intersecting words is often the best way to confirm.

Are 'drive away' clues always verbs?

Predominantly, yes. 'Drive away' implies an action, so the answers are almost always verbs (e.g., REPEL, EXPEL, BANISH). However, crosswords can sometimes use noun forms or related concepts, so always consider the context of the entire clue and the puzzle.

What are common synonyms for 'drive away' in crosswords?

Common synonyms for 'drive away' that frequently appear in crosswords include REPEL, EXPEL, DISPEL, BANISH, DEPORT, DETER, ROUT, and sometimes longer phrases like CHASEAWAY. Think about the specific nuance needed for the puzzle: is it driving away fear (DISPEL) or people (BANISH, DEPORT)?

drive away crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome! If you're stuck on the "drive away" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.

Solutions for "drive away crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

ROUT: To defeat and cause to retreat in disorder, often driving them away forcefully.

5 Letters

EXPEL: To force (someone or something) out or away, often from a group or place.

REPEL: To drive or send back (someone or something) by force, action, or the nature of something.

DETER: To discourage (someone) from doing something by instilling doubt or fear, effectively driving them away from an action.

6 Letters

DISPEL: To make (a doubt, feeling, or belief) disappear, as if driving it away.

BANISH: To send (someone) away from a country or place as an official punishment, or more generally, to get rid of something unwanted.

DEPORT: To expel (a foreigner) from a country, typically on the grounds of illegal status or for having committed a crime.

9 Letters

CHASEAWAY: To cause to leave by chasing; a straightforward act of driving something away by pursuit.

More About "drive away crossword clue"

"Drive away" is a versatile phrase that can appear in crosswords with several meanings, depending on the context. It can refer to physical expulsion, like "EXPEL" or "DEPORT," when dealing with people or objects. For instance, a clue might be "Drive away a pest" leading to "REPEL," or "Drive away an unwelcome visitor" suggesting "BANISH."

Beyond the literal, "drive away" often has a figurative meaning in puzzles. Clues like "Drive away fears" or "Drive away doubts" point towards answers such as "DISPEL" or "DETER." The key to solving these lies in identifying whether the clue is seeking a physical action or an action against an abstract concept.

Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting words you've already solved. Crossword constructors love to use synonyms and near-synonyms, so having a broad vocabulary related to pushing, removing, or causing departure will significantly aid your solving process for clues like "drive away."

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Tone: Does "drive away" feel formal (DEPORT, BANISH) or more casual (CHASEAWAY, ROUT)? The tone can hint at the specific synonym.
Consider the Object: Is something physical being driven away (a person, animal, car), or something intangible (fear, doubt, boredom)? This distinction is key for choosing between words like "EXPEL" vs. "DISPEL."
Look for Prefixes: Many words meaning "drive away" start with prefixes like "re-" (REPEL), "ex-" (EXPEL), or "dis-" (DISPEL). Keep an eye out for these patterns.
Check Word Length: This is your most direct hint. Make sure the word you're considering fits the exact number of squares. If multiple answers fit, intersecting letters will be your tie-breaker.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between 'REPEL' and 'EXPEL' for 'drive away'?

Both mean to drive away, but 'REPEL' often implies driving back or keeping at bay (like repelling an attack or mosquitoes), while 'EXPEL' means to force out entirely (like expelling a student or gas).

Can 'drive away' refer to scaring something off?

Yes, absolutely! Words like 'DETER' or 'SCARE OFF' (if it fits the letter count and is common) certainly fall under the umbrella of driving something away by making it not want to approach or stay.

Why are there so many answers for 'drive away'?

The English language is rich with synonyms, and "drive away" is a broad concept. Crossword constructors leverage this to create challenging yet fair clues, offering multiple possible answers depending on the nuance they intend and the available letter count.