failure crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a clue like "failure crossword clue" and need a quick solution, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle efficiently and learn something new along the way.
Solutions for "failure crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FAIL: A direct and common synonym for not succeeding or to come to nothing.
FLOP: Often refers to an event, project, or performance that is completely unsuccessful.
BUST: Informal term for a financial failure or a business collapse.
5 Letters
CRASH: Can describe a sudden, complete failure of a system, business, or economy.
6 Letters
FIASCO: Denotes a complete and often humiliating failure.
DEFEAT: The act of losing in a contest, battle, or struggle.
7 Letters
DEBACLE: A great disaster, a complete failure, often chaotic.
SETBACK: A reversal or impediment to progress, a temporary failure.
MISSTEP: A blunder or error that leads to a failure or complication.
8 Letters
COLLAPSE: A sudden fall, breakdown, or complete failure, often of a structure or system.
More About "failure crossword clue"
The clue "failure" is a common staple in crosswords due to the vast array of synonyms it encompasses. From minor slip-ups to catastrophic events, the concept of failure is rich with nuanced terms that can fit various letter counts and thematic contexts. This versatility makes it a favourite for setters but can sometimes make it tricky for solvers to pinpoint the exact answer.
Understanding the specific type of "failure" implied by the rest of the clue is crucial. Is it a personal failure, a business downturn, a theatrical flop, or a military defeat? Each of these contexts guides you towards a more precise synonym. For instance, a "failure of a show" might point to FLOP, while a "complete failure of a plan" could be FIASCO or DEBACLE.
Crossword constructors often use descriptive words to narrow down the meaning. Paying attention to adjectives like "utter," "humiliating," "sudden," or "minor" can be the key to selecting the correct answer among many possibilities for "failure."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Don't just look for a direct synonym. Consider the specific context or type of failure the clue might be hinting at. Is it an economic failure, a personal failing, or a theatrical disaster?
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the number of letters as your primary filter. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, especially for a common clue like "failure."
- Look for Related Concepts: Crossword clues often use wordplay or related concepts. Think about what causes failure (e.g., error, blunder) or what results from it (e.g., ruin, collapse).
- Consider Common Crossword Tropes: Some words like FLOP, BUST, and CRASH are very common in crosswords when hinting at failure in specific domains (e.g., entertainment, finance).
For more advice on tackling challenging clues, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "failure" have so many crossword answers?
The concept of failure is remarkably broad, encompassing various forms from minor errors to catastrophic collapses. This rich semantic field provides numerous synonyms, each with slightly different nuances, making it a versatile clue for crossword setters to use across many lengths and contexts.
How can I choose the right "failure" answer in a crossword?
Context is key. Pay close attention to the clue's precise wording: does it imply a complete breakdown (e.g., DEBACLE, FIASCO), a simple lack of success (e.g., FAIL, FLOP), a temporary impediment (e.g., SETBACK), or a loss in a contest (e.g., DEFEAT)? Always cross-reference with known letters and the required length.
Are there common themes or patterns related to 'failure' clues?
Yes, clues might hint at specific types of failure, such as financial (CRASH, BUST), theatrical (FLOP), military (DEFEAT), or personal errors (MISSTEP). Look for words in the clue that narrow down the type of failure, such as 'show,' 'economy,' or 'battle.' Idiomatic expressions implying failure are also common.