exploits crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles! Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "exploits crossword clue", helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "exploits crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
USES: To make full use of and derive benefit from (a resource). Often implies taking advantage of something or someone, sometimes unfairly.
ACTS: Things done; deeds. Can refer to actions performed.
5 Letters
FEATS: An achievement that requires great courage, skill, or strength. Often refers to heroic or impressive accomplishments.
DEEDS: An action or an act. Similar to 'feats' but can be more general, referring to any action taken.
MINES: To extract resources or lay explosive devices. Can also be used metaphorically to mean extracting something for one's own benefit.
6 Letters
PROFIT: Obtain a financial advantage or benefit, especially from an investment or other transaction. Can also refer to gaining unfairly from a situation or person.
More About "exploits crossword clue"
"Exploits" is a versatile word in the English language, and thus, a popular choice for crossword setters. It carries a dual meaning, which can be a common source of confusion for solvers. On one hand, it refers to a heroic act or a notable achievement, akin to "feats" or "deeds." These are typically positive connotations, highlighting skill, courage, or success.
On the other hand, "exploits" can mean to make full use of and derive benefit from a resource, often in a way that is unfair, selfish, or even abusive. This meaning aligns with words like "uses" or "profits," particularly when one takes advantage of a situation or person. Understanding this dichotomy is key to successfully solving crossword clues involving this word, as the setter might be hinting at either interpretation.
When you encounter "exploits crossword clue," always consider the letter count and how the word might fit into both its positive and negative senses. Surrounding clues and any specific synonyms or phrases within the clue itself will provide the crucial context needed to pinpoint the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "exploits," consider if the setter is hinting at a positive (achievements) or negative (taking advantage) meaning. This can often be discerned from other words in the clue.
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the available spaces. This immediately narrows down possibilities for words like USES (4 letters) versus FEATS (5 letters).
- Use Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by using letters from already solved intersecting clues. If a potential answer doesn't fit, it's incorrect.
- Think of Synonyms: Brainstorm various synonyms for the clue, and then try to fit them into the available letter count. For "exploits," think "deeds," "acts," "uses," "profits."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'exploits' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'exploits' can refer to a range of meanings from 'brave or notable deeds' (like FEATS or DEEDS) to 'taking unfair advantage of something or someone' (like USES or PROFITS). The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How can I distinguish between the different meanings of 'exploits' when solving?
Pay close attention to the number of letters required for the answer, any specific synonyms given in the clue (if available), and most importantly, the letters from intersecting clues. If the clue has a negative connotation, answers like 'USES' or 'PROFIT' might be appropriate. If it refers to achievements, 'FEATS' or 'DEEDS' are more likely.
Are there common synonyms for 'exploits' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include USES, FEATS, DEEDS, ACTS, MINES, and less commonly, TAKESADVANTAGE. The context of the puzzle often guides which synonym is intended.