employs crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and the clue is "employs," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "employs crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
USES: Puts something into service or action.
5 Letters
HIRES: Engages someone for work or a service, a direct synonym for employing staff.
6 Letters
ADOPTS: Takes on a new method, practice, or attitude; as in "employs a new strategy."
7 Letters
ENGAGES: Hires or brings into service, often referring to professional services like lawyers or consultants.
RETAINS: Keeps someone in one's service or possession, often used in legal or professional contexts, implying continued employment.
8 Letters
UTILIZES: Makes practical and effective use of something, a more formal synonym for 'uses' or 'employs'.
9 Letters
EXERCISES: Uses or applies a faculty, right, or quality; for example, "employs sound judgment" or "exercises authority."
More About "employs crossword clue"
"Employs" is a versatile verb that frequently appears in crossword puzzles due to its multiple meanings. At its core, it signifies putting something or someone into service or action. This can range from a person being hired for a job (e.g., 'hires' as in 'employs staff') to an object being used for a task (e.g., 'uses' as in 'employs a tool').
The clue 'employs' often tests a solver's ability to think beyond the most literal definition and consider nuanced synonyms. For instance, while 'hires' is straightforward, 'adopts' might be the answer if the clue implies employing a new method, or 'exercises' if it refers to employing a power or right. Pay close attention to the number of letters required and any intersecting words to guide your choice.
Understanding these different facets of 'employs' can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process. Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide you with all possible interpretations, ensuring you have the exact solution you need, regardless of the subtlety of the clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always look at the surrounding clues and any letters you've already filled in. These can provide vital context for which meaning of "employs" is intended.
- Count Letters Carefully: The exact number of letters is your most crucial hint. "Employs" could be a short "USES" or a much longer "UTILIZES" – knowing the length eliminates many possibilities.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: While "uses" and "hires" are common, also consider words like "engages," "adopts," or "exercises" if the clue implies a more abstract application or management.
- Check for Anagrams or Puns: Less common for 'employs' itself, but always be alert to wordplay in crosswords. Sometimes a clue can be a misdirection.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'employs' typically mean in crossword clues?
'Employs' in crossword clues most commonly refers to using, hiring, or making use of something or someone. Synonyms like 'uses,' 'hires,' 'utilizes,' 'engages,' or 'retains' are very common answers. The specific context of the puzzle's theme or other crossing words will help narrow down the exact fit.
Are there any less common interpretations of 'employs' in crosswords?
Yes, 'employs' can sometimes refer to the act of applying or exercising a skill or right, leading to answers like 'exercises' or 'applies.' It might also suggest adopting a particular method or tactic, pointing to 'adopts.' Always consider the broader meaning of 'to put into service or action' when solving.
How can I quickly find the right answer for 'employs' when stuck?
First, check the number of letters required. Then, consider the context from any intersecting words you've already filled in. Think about common synonyms like 'uses' or 'hires,' but also expand to more formal ones like 'utilizes' or 'engages.' If it's a trickier clue, consider 'exercises' or 'adopts.' Websites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk are designed to provide quick and accurate solutions.