encourage crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "encourage crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "encourage crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
URGE: To strongly recommend or persuade someone to do something.
SPUR: To encourage an activity or development.
5 Letters
BOOST: To help improve or increase something.
6 Letters
INCITE: To encourage or stir up (behavior or a feeling) in someone.
FOSTER: To encourage or promote the development of something.
7 Letters
HEARTEN: To make someone feel more cheerful or hopeful.
INSPIRE: To fill someone with the urge or ability to do something creative.
SUPPORT: To give assistance to, especially to enable to function or continue.
PROMOTE: To further the progress of something; to encourage the sale, acceptance, etc., of (a product or idea).
8 Letters
MOTIVATE: To provide someone with a motive for doing something.
EMBOLDEN: To give (someone) the courage or confidence to do something.
9 Letters
STIMULATE: To encourage interest or activity in something.
More About "encourage crossword clue"
The clue "encourage" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to a range of synonyms that reflect various forms of motivation, support, or prompting. From a gentle 'urge' to a more forceful 'incite', the chosen answer heavily depends on the context provided by intersecting letters and the overall theme of the puzzle. Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to mastering such clues.
When you encounter 'encourage', think about whether the puzzle is looking for a word related to emotional support ('hearten', 'inspire'), practical assistance ('foster', 'boost'), or initiating action ('spur', 'stimulate'). Crossword setters love to play with these subtle distinctions, making it important to consider all possibilities and how they might fit into the grid. Always double-check definitions to ensure the perfect fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the surrounding clues. The theme of the puzzle or other solved words can often narrow down the possibilities for "encourage."
- Consider Nuances: Words like 'encourage' have many synonyms, each with slightly different connotations. Think about whether the clue implies gentle support, forceful prompting, or nurturing growth.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters needed is your most powerful constraint. Use it to eliminate many possibilities and focus on those that fit the given length.
- Think Outside the Box: Sometimes, common words for 'encourage' won't fit. Be prepared for less obvious synonyms or even words that describe a result of encouragement.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many letters are in the most common answer for 'encourage'?
Common answers for 'encourage' can vary in length, but popular shorter solutions like 'URGE' and 'SPUR' are 4 letters, while 'BOOST' is 5 letters. Longer options like 'HEARTEN' are 7 letters, and 'STIMULATE' is 9 letters.
What's the difference between 'encourage' and 'incite' in crosswords?
While 'incite' often implies stirring up negative or violent actions in everyday language, in crosswords, it can be used more broadly to mean to provoke or stimulate any kind of action or feeling, making it a valid answer for 'encourage'. Context within the puzzle is crucial.
Can 'foster' be an answer for 'encourage'?
Yes, 'foster' is an excellent answer for 'encourage', especially when the clue implies nurturing growth or development, such as 'foster good habits' or 'foster a sense of community'. It denotes supporting the development of something positive.