drive back crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "drive back"? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find all the possible answers for this common crossword clue, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you solve your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "drive back crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROUT: To defeat and cause to retreat in disorder.
5 Letters
REPEL: To drive or force an attacker or undesirable thing away.
DETER: To discourage someone from doing something, often by instilling doubt or fear.
6 Letters
REBUFF: To reject someone or something in an abrupt or ungracious manner, sending them back.
DEFEAT: To overcome in a contest, election, or battle, often resulting in the opponent's retreat.
9 Letters
FORCEBACK: To push back by physical or strategic means.
More About "drive back crossword clue"
The phrase "drive back" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often pointing to words that signify forcing retreat, repelling, or deterring. This can range from physical actions, like "repel" an invasion, to more abstract concepts, such as to "rebuff" an unwelcome advance or to "deter" an action.
Crossword constructors use clues like "drive back" to test your vocabulary and understanding of synonyms. The challenge often lies in selecting the precise word that fits the available letter count and the specific nuance implied by the puzzle's theme or other intersecting clues. Recognizing the various contexts in which something might be 'driven back' is key to finding the correct solution, making it a popular and interesting clue type.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms Carefully: For clues like "drive back," think of all possible synonyms that imply forcing movement in reverse or preventing progress. Common examples include 'repel', 'rout', 'rebuff', or 'deter'.
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the exact number of letters provided by the puzzle as your primary filter. "Drive back" can have many answers depending on the length needed, so this is the most crucial step.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: If you've already filled in a few letters from other clues, use them to confirm or narrow down your options. This is especially helpful when multiple synonyms of similar length exist.
- Think About Context: Is the clue implying a physical action (like a battle), a social interaction, or a more psychological one? Understanding the context can help you choose the most appropriate word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for "drive back" in crosswords?
Common synonyms for "drive back" in crosswords include REPEL, ROUT, DETER, REBUFF, and DEFEAT. The specific answer will depend on the required letter count and the puzzle's context.
How do I choose between similar answers for "drive back"?
Always prioritize the exact letter count. Then, consider the broader theme of the crossword or any intersecting letters you might already have filled in. The context (e.g., military, social, or physical) can also guide your choice.
Why do some "drive back" clues have multiple possible answers?
Many English words have close synonyms, and crossword constructors often use this to create challenging puzzles with various valid solutions depending on the desired word length. Our aim is to provide all common possibilities.