exaggerate the merits of something crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "exaggerate the merits of something" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide quick help, detailed explanations, and answers across all common word lengths to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "exaggerate the merits of something crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
AMPLIFY: To make something more significant or exaggerated.
MAGNIFY: To make something appear larger, more important, or more intense than it is.
9 Letters
OVERSTATE: To express or state something too strongly; to exaggerate the facts of.
EMBELLISH: To make a story or statement more interesting by adding extra details, often imaginary or untrue; to make better than it is.
10 Letters
AGGRANDIZE: To enhance the power, status, or wealth of; to exaggerate the importance or value of (someone or something).
More About "exaggerate the merits of something crossword clue"
The concept of exaggerating merits is common not just in everyday language but also as a theme in crossword puzzles. Clues that point to this idea often look for words that denote an overstatement, an embellishment, or an inflation of reality to make something appear more impressive or significant than it truly is. These words can range from straightforward synonyms like "OVERSTATE" to more nuanced terms such as "AGGRANDIZE" or "EMBELLISH," each carrying slightly different connotations while maintaining the core meaning of presenting something beyond its actual worth.
Understanding the subtle differences between these words can be crucial for selecting the correct answer in a crossword. For instance, "AMPLIFY" might suggest making something louder or more intense, which can extend to making merits seem more profound, while "MAGNIFY" typically implies increasing scale or importance. Paying close attention to the number of letters and any intersecting words will help you pinpoint the precise term the puzzle setter had in mind for 'exaggerate the merits of something'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of letters the answer requires. This is your most powerful filter and often narrows down possibilities significantly, especially for clues like 'exaggerate the merits of something' which can have multiple synonyms.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: Think broadly about synonyms. Words like "overstate," "aggrandize," "amplify," "embellish," and "magnify" all relate, but each has a specific shade of meaning. The specific wording of the clue might hint at which nuance is intended.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them! They can quickly confirm or rule out potential answers. This is especially helpful when dealing with longer, less common answers such as AGGRANDIZE.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "exaggerate the merits of something" mean?
It means to describe or present something in a way that makes its good qualities or achievements seem greater than they actually are. This often involves overstating facts or adding unnecessary positive details.
Why are there multiple answers for one crossword clue?
Many words in English have similar meanings or synonyms. Crossword setters often use clues that can be solved by several different words of varying lengths, or the same word might fit a clue in different puzzles depending on the surrounding answers. Our goal is to provide all common possibilities.
How can I improve my vocabulary for crossword puzzles?
Regularly reading, especially diverse texts, can greatly expand your vocabulary. Additionally, make a habit of looking up words you don't know, and pay attention to common crossword puzzle word patterns and clue types. Practicing daily also helps build your mental lexicon for puzzles.