hedge crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on "hedge crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "hedge crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FENCE: A physical barrier often made of shrubs or wire, similar to a hedge.
AVOID: To bypass or circumvent, as one might 'hedge' a question to avoid a direct answer.
EVADE: To escape or get away from, often by cleverness or trickery, similar to avoiding a topic.
6 Letters
SHIELD: To protect or defend, much like a hedge can protect a property from view or wind.
7 Letters
PREVENT: To stop something from happening, a primary function of a hedge as a barrier.
8 Letters
BOUNDARY: A line that marks the limits of an area, which a hedge often defines.
More About "hedge crossword clue"
The term "hedge" is a versatile word in crosswords, often leading to answers that cover both its literal and metaphorical meanings. Literally, a hedge is a row of closely planted shrubs or small trees, forming a barrier or boundary. This can lead to answers like FENCE or SHRUB, emphasizing its physical nature.
Metaphorically, "hedge" implies a way of avoiding directness, limiting risk, or protecting oneself from something. For instance, to "hedge your bets" means to reduce potential losses or to be non-committal, which points to answers like AVOID, EVADE, or PREVENT. Understanding the dual nature of the clue is key to unlocking the correct answer, especially when the number of letters isn't immediately obvious.
Always consider the context of other clues in the puzzle. Sometimes, a long answer might refer to a specific type of plant used for hedging, while a shorter one might hint at the action of circumvention or protection. The beauty of "hedge" as a clue lies in its ability to span across various concepts, challenging solvers to think broadly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: For clues like "hedge," always think about both literal and figurative interpretations. Is it a physical object or an action?
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from crossing words. This is the most reliable way to confirm or narrow down possibilities for the "hedge" clue.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: If "hedge" is clued, consider its synonyms (like barrier, shield, avoid) or even antonyms if the clue suggests it (e.g., "opposite of hedging").
- Context is King: Pay attention to the wording of the clue itself. Does it imply an object, an action, or a state? This can often guide you to the correct meaning and answer length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hedge' mean in a crossword puzzle context?
In crosswords, 'hedge' can refer to a physical barrier (like a fence or shrubbery), or it can mean to avoid, equivocate, or protect against something (like hedging bets).
How many letters do typical answers for 'hedge' have?
Answers for 'hedge' can vary widely. Common lengths include 5 letters (e.g., FENCE, AVOID, EVADE), 6 letters (e.g., SHIELD), 7 letters (e.g., PREVENT), or even longer for more specific or figurative meanings (e.g., BOUNDARY, SIDESTEP, EQUIVOCATE).
Are there common tricks or synonyms for 'hedge' in crosswords?
Yes, watch for synonyms related to 'barrier,' 'limit,' 'avoid,' 'protect,' or 'circumvent.' Clues might also refer to specific types of hedges like 'boxwood' or 'privet' for longer answers, or imply the act of 'hedging one's bets' which points to synonyms for 'limit' or 'reduce risk.'