foil crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "foil," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below you'll find solutions organized by their letter count, along with clear explanations.
Solutions for "foil crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
RIVAL: An opponent or competitor, often someone who tries to 'foil' another's plans or efforts.
BLADE: Refers to a fencing 'foil', which is a light dueling sword with a flexible blade.
SHEET: A thin, flexible piece of material, as in aluminum foil or tin foil.
6 Letters
THWART: To prevent someone from accomplishing something; to frustrate or stop them.
DEFEAT: To overcome or beat in a contest, struggle, or battle; to 'foil' an opponent's attempt.
More About "foil crossword clue"
"Foil" is a fascinating word in crosswords because of its multiple distinct meanings. As a verb, it commonly means to prevent someone from achieving an objective or to frustrate their efforts, often implying a clever or cunning counteraction. This sense makes it a popular choice for clues alongside words like "thwart," "defeat," or "hinder."
Beyond its verbal uses, "foil" also functions as a noun with at least two prominent meanings. It can refer to a very thin sheet of metal, such as the common kitchen product "aluminum foil" used for wrapping food. Additionally, it denotes a specific type of weapon in fencing, characterized by its long, thin, flexible blade and a blunt tip, making it a key term in sports or historical puzzles. Understanding these different contexts is crucial for solving "foil" clues accurately.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the answer box. This is the first and most critical filter for multi-meaning clues like "foil."
- Consider Surrounding Clues: Look at neighboring clues and answers. Sometimes, the theme of a puzzle or other solved words can narrow down the possible meaning of a tricky clue. For "foil," if other answers are sports-related, a fencing term might be implied. If they're kitchen-related, the metal sheet meaning is likely.
- Explore Synonyms & Antonyms: For verbs like "foil" (to thwart), think of synonyms (hinder, impede, prevent) and antonyms (assist, enable) which can sometimes indirectly lead you to the right path. For nouns, consider related objects or roles.
- Think Broadly and Literally: Don't just stick to the most common meaning. Crossword setters love to use less common or more literal interpretations of words. "Foil" as a metal sheet or a fencing weapon are excellent examples of this.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'foil' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'foil' is a versatile clue. It can mean to thwart or defeat (as a verb), refer to an opponent or rival (as a noun), or describe a thin sheet of metal (like aluminum foil), or even a specific type of sword used in fencing.
How can I determine the correct 'foil' answer for my puzzle?
The key to choosing the right answer for 'foil' is to look at the number of letters required and the surrounding letters you've already filled in. The context of other clues in the puzzle can also offer hints. For example, if there are many cooking-related clues, the 'sheet' meaning might be more likely.
Are there other common words similar to 'foil' in crosswords?
Yes, clues like 'hinder', 'impede', 'obstruct', 'adversary', 'opponent', or 'metal wrap' often lead to answers synonymous with or related to 'foil'. Always consider the various nuances and synonyms of the word.