formally refuses to deal with – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Searching for solutions to the clue "formally refuses to deal with"? You've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive answers by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "formally refuses to deal with" by Letter Count
7 Letters
BOYCOTT: To refuse to buy from, use, or participate in something as a way of protesting or expressing disapproval, often formally organized.
9 Letters
OSTRACIZE: To exclude someone from a society or group, either formally or informally, often by general consent.
More About "formally refuses to deal with"
The phrase "formally refuses to deal with" typically points to actions of exclusion, protest, or deliberate avoidance. In the context of crosswords, such clues often require words that denote a strong, conscious decision to disengage or distance oneself from an individual, group, or entity. This can range from a personal choice to a widespread, organized movement.
The nuance of "formally" suggests a declared or recognized act, rather than a mere casual avoidance. This might imply a public statement, a collective decision, or an official policy. Understanding this distinction is key to selecting the most accurate answer among similar-sounding options like "shun" or "avoid." Crossword setters often use such precise wording to guide solvers to a specific word.
Consider the historical or social implications of the answer. A "boycott," for instance, has a strong political and economic connotation, while "ostracize" is more focused on social expulsion. Both, however, fit the "formally refuses to deal with" criteria, making them strong candidates depending on the available letter count and surrounding clues in the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Examine the Adverbs: Words like "formally" are crucial. They narrow down the meaning and often eliminate casual synonyms, pointing towards more deliberate or official terms.
- Consider Word Length: Always check the number of available boxes in the grid. This is your most direct hint and immediately rules out many possibilities.
- Look for Common Roots: Sometimes, similar concepts share Latin or Greek roots. Knowing these can help you deduce a word even if you don't know it immediately.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: Use letters revealed by crossing words. Even a single letter can transform an unknown answer into an obvious one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'formally refuses to deal with' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'formally refuses to deal with' refers to a deliberate and often official or recognized act of disengaging, excluding, or protesting against someone or something. It implies a conscious decision rather than an accidental or casual avoidance.
Is 'shun' a good answer for 'formally refuses to deal with'?
While 'shun' means to persistently avoid, ignore, or reject, it doesn't always carry the 'formal' implication as strongly as 'boycott' or 'ostracize'. It can be a valid answer if the letter count fits (4 letters) and the context of other clues supports a less formal but still deliberate avoidance.
How do I know if the answer is 'BOYCOTT' or 'OSTRACIZE'?
The main differentiator will be the letter count (BOYCOTT is 7 letters, OSTRACIZE is 9 letters). Beyond that, 'boycott' often relates to commercial or political protest (refusing to buy or participate), whereas 'ostracize' typically refers to social exclusion of an individual from a group.