feign crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Looking for solutions to the "feign crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! This page provides all possible answers, clear explanations, and expert tips to help you complete your crossword puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "feign crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SHAM: To feign or pretend; a spurious or deceptive imitation. Often used for something falsely presented as genuine.
FAKE: To feign or counterfeit, often with the intention to deceive. Similar to 'sham' but can also imply producing a forgery.
6 Letters
AFFECT: To feign or simulate; to put on an act or show a false display of a feeling or state, often for effect.
7 Letters
PRETEND: To feign, simulate, or make believe. The most common synonym, implying a deliberate act of making something appear true when it's not.
8 Letters
SIMULATE: To feign or imitate the appearance or character of something. Often implies a more elaborate or realistic imitation than 'pretend'.
More About "feign crossword clue"
The word "feign" means to pretend to be affected by (a feeling, state, or injury). It's a versatile verb that often appears in crossword puzzles because it has several common synonyms that fit various letter counts. Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms can be key to solving the clue correctly.
For instance, while "PRETEND" is a direct synonym, "SHAM" or "FAKE" might imply a less elaborate or more superficial deception. "SIMULATE" often suggests a more technical or detailed imitation, perhaps of a process or system, although it can also apply to emotions. "AFFECT" can mean to put on a show or display, especially of an emotion, without genuinely feeling it.
Crossword setters love words like "feign" because they allow for a range of answers, forcing solvers to consider not just the primary meaning but also context and intersecting letters. Always consider the precise nuance of the clue and how it might lead to a specific synonym.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always double-check the number of squares for the answer. This is the most crucial step, as it immediately narrows down your options. Our answer sections are organized by letter count to make this easier.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues. Even one letter can often confirm an answer or eliminate many possibilities, especially with shorter words like 'SHAM' or 'FAKE'.
- Consider Nuances and Context: While 'feign' is the core, the crossword clue might add subtle hints. For example, 'Feign illness' might strongly point to 'MALINGER', which is another form of feigning. Always read the full clue carefully.
- Think about Parts of Speech: Is the answer likely a verb (like 'feign' itself) or a noun (like 'a sham')? Crosswords sometimes use a clue that points to a noun form of a verb, or vice-versa.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'feign' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'feign' typically means to pretend, simulate, or fake. It asks for a word that describes the act of putting on an appearance or displaying an emotion that isn't genuine.
Are there common synonyms for 'feign' used as crossword answers?
Yes, common synonyms include PRETEND, SHAM, FAKE, AFFECT, and SIMULATE. The specific answer will depend on the required letter count and any intersecting letters you already have in your puzzle.
How can I determine the correct letter count for a 'feign' answer?
The crossword grid itself provides the letter count. Each empty square represents one letter. You'll need to count the number of blank squares for the specific answer you are trying to fill, then match it to the available solutions for 'feign'.