hesitate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the 'hesitate' crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations and categorized by letter count, to help you solve your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "hesitate crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PAUSE: To stop or wait for a brief period, often due to uncertainty.
DEMUR: To raise doubts or objections, or show reluctance, which is a form of hesitation.
WAVER: To be indecisive or to show indecision, a direct synonym for hesitate.
6 Letters
FALTER: To lose strength or momentum, or to speak hesitantly, often used when one hesitates in action or speech.
7 Letters
SCRUPLE: To feel a doubt or hesitation with regard to the morality or propriety of a course of action.
9 Letters
VACILLATE: To alternate or waver between different opinions or actions, indicating a state of indecision or hesitation.
More About "hesitate crossword clue"
The clue "hesitate" is a common one in crosswords and can refer to various forms of pausing, reluctance, or indecision. It’s a versatile word that can trick solvers if they don't consider all its nuances. Answers can range from a simple stop to a deep moral dilemma, reflecting different levels of hesitation.
Understanding the context of the puzzle is crucial. Is it a cryptic clue hinting at something else, or a straightforward definition? The surrounding clues and any letters you've already filled in will often guide you to the precise answer. Synonyms like 'pause', 'demur', 'waver', and 'falter' are frequently used, so familiarizing yourself with these can give you a significant advantage.
Sometimes, "hesitate" might even refer to a physical action, such as a vehicle that 'stalls' or a person who 'stops short'. Always keep an open mind and consider both literal and figurative interpretations of the clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Letter Count: The number of letters is your most powerful hint. If you have 'hesitate' and need a 5-letter word, you can immediately rule out 'falter' (6 letters).
- Check Crossing Letters: Always use letters from solved clues that intersect with your target word. These are definitive constraints that will quickly eliminate incorrect possibilities.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: Think broadly about what "hesitate" can mean. Does it imply a physical pause, a mental pause, or a moral reservation? Each nuance can lead to a different correct answer.
- Look for Common Crossword Patterns: Certain words appear more frequently due to their useful letter combinations or common meanings. Recognizing these patterns can speed up your solve time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to approach a "hesitate" clue in a crossword?
When encountering 'hesitate' in a crossword, think of synonyms related to pausing, being unsure, or showing reluctance. Consider the word length and any crossing letters you already have, as these are crucial hints to narrow down the possibilities. Common answers often include PAUSE, DEMUR, or FALTER.
Why are there often multiple answers for a single crossword clue like "hesitate"?
Crosswords frequently use synonyms or words with very similar meanings, especially for common concepts. The specific answer depends on the puzzle's theme, other interlocking words (crossing letters), and the unique style of the crossword setter. Always check the number of letters required.
Can "hesitate" ever refer to a physical action in crosswords?
Yes, while 'hesitate' often describes a mental state, it can also refer to a physical pause or faltering in movement. For instance, a dancer might 'pause' or 'falter' in their steps, or a car might 'hesitate' before accelerating. Context within the clue or the puzzle is key to distinguishing between mental and physical connotations.