expand crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "expand," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "expand crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GROW: To increase in size, amount, or intensity.
5 Letters
WIDEN: To make or become wider.
SWELL: To become larger or rounder in size, typically as a result of an accumulation of fluid or gas.
BLOOM: To open out, spread, or come into flower, or to flourish.
6 Letters
SPREAD: To open out, stretch, or extend over a large or wider area.
7 Letters
ENLARGE: To make something bigger in size, scope, or extent.
AMPLIFY: To increase the volume, especially of sound, or to expand on details.
DEVELOP: To grow or cause to grow and become more mature, advanced, or elaborate.
PROLONG: To extend the duration of something.
8 Letters
ELONGATE: To make something longer.
More About "expand crossword clue"
The term "expand" in crosswords is a versatile clue, often leading to a range of answers that signify growth, increase, or development. It can refer to physical enlargement, like a balloon EXPANDING (SWELL), or the broadening of an idea or concept, such as EXPANDING on a topic (AMPLIFY, DEVELOP). Recognizing the specific context and nuance is crucial for selecting the correct answer among many possibilities.
Crossword setters love to play with synonyms, and "expand" is a prime example. From simple four-letter words like GROW to longer, more descriptive terms like ELONGATE, the answer often hinges on the precise number of letters needed and how it fits with other intersecting words. Always consider both the literal and figurative meanings of "expand" when tackling such a clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: This is the most critical first step for any crossword clue. The number of boxes will instantly narrow down your options for "expand."
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that mean the same as "expand" (like 'grow', 'widen') and sometimes even their opposites if the clue is a cryptic one (e.g., 'contract' might be part of a wordplay clue for 'expand').
- Look for Context Clues: Does the clue hint at a specific field, like music (AMPLIFY) or biology (GROW, DEVELOP)? The surrounding words in the clue can provide vital context.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a tricky clue like "expand" in isolation. Once you have a few letters from intersecting clues, plug them in. This will often reveal the correct answer, as only a few words will fit the pattern.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'expand' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'expand' usually refers to making something larger, wider, longer, or more comprehensive. Common synonyms include grow, enlarge, stretch, or even elaborate. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues.
How can I differentiate between similar 'expand' answers?
Context is key! Look at other clues in the puzzle. Is there a theme related to sound (AMPLIFY), growth (GROW, DEVELOP), or physical space (WIDEN, SPREAD)? The number of letters is also a crucial differentiator. Consider if the clue has a subtle nuance, like 'expand upon' (which might lead to ELABORATE).
Are there common wordplay tricks for 'expand' clues?
Sometimes 'expand' might hint at wordplay. For example, 'expand on paper' could lead to UNFOLD. Or a clue like 'expand knowledge' could point to LEARN or GROW. Always be on the lookout for double meanings or homophones if the clue feels particularly tricky. Acrostic clues, where the answer is hidden within the clue's text, are less common for 'expand' but possible.