What does 'exhort' mean in a crossword clue context?

'Exhort' typically means to strongly urge, encourage, or advise someone to do something. In crosswords, answers will be synonyms like URGE, ADVISE, COUNSEL, or ENCOURAGE.

How can I find the correct length for 'exhort' answers?

The surrounding letters in your crossword grid will indicate the length. Always count the empty squares to determine the number of letters needed, then look for answers that fit that specific length.

Are there common prefixes or suffixes for words related to 'exhort'?

While 'exhort' itself doesn't have common crossword prefixes/suffixes for its synonyms, related concepts like 'encouragement' might feature 'EN-' or '-MENT'. Focus on direct synonyms that fit the exact letter count provided by the puzzle.

exhort crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "exhort crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.

Solutions for "exhort crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

URGE: To strongly recommend or persuade someone to do something; a direct synonym for exhort.

6 Letters

ADVISE: To offer suggestions about the best course of action to someone, often with a sense of strong recommendation or counsel.

7 Letters

COUNSEL: To give advice, especially professional advice; synonymous with advising or guiding someone, often in a more formal context.

8 Letters

ADMONISH: To warn or reprimand someone firmly, often with an element of urging them to do better or avoid a mistake. It combines advice with a strong suggestion.

9 Letters

ENCOURAGE: To give support, confidence, or hope to someone, prompting them to proceed or be more determined, directly aligning with the persuasive aspect of exhort.

More About "exhort crossword clue"

"Exhort" is a powerful verb meaning to strongly urge or advise someone to do something. When it appears in a crossword puzzle, the expected answers are usually direct synonyms that convey this sense of strong encouragement or counsel. The nuance can sometimes lean towards warning (as in "admonish") or simply enthusiastic prompting (as in "urge" or "encourage"). Understanding this core meaning is key to deciphering the correct answer.

Crossword setters often use 'exhort' because it allows for a good range of answer lengths, from short, punchy words like 'URGE' to longer, more formal terms such as 'ENCOURAGE' or 'ADMONISH'. The context of the surrounding clues or the theme of the puzzle might also hint at whether a more positive (encourage) or cautionary (admonish) synonym is required. Always consider the overall tone and wordplay.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Tone: For a word like "exhort," consider if the clue implies a positive urging, a warning, or general advice. This can help narrow down synonyms.
Check Surrounding Letters: Don't just look at the clue; examine the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters will quickly reveal the exact word length and often parts of the answer.
Think of Common Synonyms: For common verbs and nouns, mentally list as many synonyms as you can. This increases your chances of hitting on the specific word the setter had in mind.
Consider Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, a single-word clue like "exhort" might have a two-word answer (though less common for this specific clue). Keep an open mind to these possibilities in general.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common answer for 'exhort' in crosswords?

While several answers fit, 'URGE' (4 letters) and 'ADVISE' (6 letters) are very common due to their direct synonymy and useful lengths in crossword grids.

Does 'exhort' ever mean to scold or punish?

No, 'exhort' fundamentally means to urge or encourage. While 'ADMONISH' (8 letters) can involve a firm reprimand, it's still with the intention of guiding or urging better behavior, not pure punishment.

How can I improve my vocabulary for crossword clues like 'exhort'?

Regularly reading, using a thesaurus, and intentionally learning synonyms for common verbs and adjectives can significantly boost your crossword vocabulary. Websites like Crosswordanswer.co.uk provide explanations that help build this knowledge contextually.