give reasons for crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! Struggling with the clue "give reasons for"? You've come to the right place. We've compiled all the likely answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your crossword puzzle quickly and accurately. Dive in to find your solution!
Solutions for "give reasons for crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
EXPLAIN: To make something clear or easy to understand, providing the necessary justification or clarity for an action or statement.
JUSTIFY: To show or prove that something is right or reasonable, often in response to criticism or doubt.
CLARIFY: To make a statement or situation less confused and more comprehensible.
11 Letters
RATIONALIZE: To attempt to explain or justify (one's own or another's behavior or attitude) with logical, plausible reasons, even if these are not true or appropriate.
12 Letters
SUBSTANTIATE: To provide evidence to support or prove the truth of something, giving reasons for its validity.
More About "give reasons for crossword clue"
The clue "give reasons for" often appears in crosswords seeking a verb that denotes the act of providing an explanation, justification, or rationale. This type of clue requires solvers to think about synonyms for words like 'explain', 'account for', 'vindicate', or 'clarify'. It's a common cryptic and standard crossword clue, testing one's vocabulary around logical exposition and defense of actions or ideas.
Understanding the nuance of the clue can be key. "Give reasons for" implies a need for substantiation or an attempt to make something understandable. It moves beyond simple definition to the act of communication aimed at clarity or acceptance. This makes answers like RATIONALIZE particularly fitting when the reasons might be more self-serving, while EXPLAIN or CLARIFY are more neutral.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always match your potential answer with the exact number of letters required. This is your primary filter.
- Consider Synonyms and Wordplay: Many crossword clues, including "give reasons for," use synonyms. For trickier clues, think about homophones, anagrams, or puns related to the concept.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from other solved clues that cross your current clue are invaluable. Use them as hints to narrow down possibilities.
- Think of Context: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can provide subtle hints about the type of answer expected.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'give reasons for' mean in a crossword clue?
In a crossword, 'give reasons for' is a clue that prompts you to find a verb meaning to explain, justify, or provide a logical basis for something. It often points to words related to providing an account or defense.
Are there common answer patterns for 'give reasons for'?
Common answers for this type of clue include words like EXPLAIN, JUSTIFY, CLARIFY, RATIONALIZE, or SUBSTANTIATE. The exact answer will depend on the required letter count and any intersecting letters in your puzzle.
How can I find the correct length for a crossword answer?
The correct length for a crossword answer is usually indicated by numbers in parentheses next to the clue, or by the number of empty squares in the grid. Always cross-reference your potential answer with the given length and existing letters.