hits crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "hits crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle and understand the nuances of this tricky clue.
Solutions for "hits crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
CLOUTS: To strike with a heavy blow, especially with the hand.
7 Letters
STRIKES: To deliver a blow to someone or something; to come into forceful or violent contact with something.
WALLOPS: To hit (someone or something) very hard.
IMPACTS: To come into forceful contact with another object; to have a strong effect on someone or something.
8 Letters
BELTINGS: A series of heavy blows or a severe beating.
More About "hits crossword clue"
The word "hits" is a classic example of a polysemous term, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings, making it a favorite for crossword setters. Depending on the context, "hits" could refer to a physical strike, as in a baseball player hitting a ball, or a person being hit by a car. It can also denote success, as in a 'hit song' or a 'box office hit'.
Furthermore, "hits" can imply reaching a target or goal, such as 'hitting a sales target' or 'hitting the mark'. In a more abstract sense, it can describe an emotional or conceptual impact, like a sudden realization 'hitting' you. This versatility requires solvers to pay close attention to the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the puzzle to deduce the correct meaning and corresponding answer.
Understanding these different facets of "hits" is key to successfully navigating puzzles where this clue appears. Always consider whether the clue is looking for a synonym for striking, succeeding, reaching, or affecting, and then match that to the available letter count.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Context: Always read the full clue carefully. Is there any indication of a specific domain (e.g., music, sports, crime) or a particular type of action? This can narrow down the potential meanings of "hits."
- Check for Plurality and Tense: The "s" at the end of "hits" is crucial. It indicates a plural answer or a third-person singular present tense verb. If the clue was "hit" (past tense), the answers would be different.
- Use Crossing Letters Wisely: The most effective strategy for polysemous clues like "hits" is to fill in as many intersecting letters from other clues as possible. These letters often reveal the unique spelling that points to the exact word you need.
- Think Synonyms Broadly: Don't just think of synonyms for 'strike'. Expand your thought process to include synonyms for 'achieves', 'impacts', 'reaches', or even 'encounters', depending on the implied meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'hits crossword clue' have so many different answers?
'Hits' is a highly versatile word with multiple meanings depending on the context. It can refer to physical strikes, successes (e.g., a hit song), reaching a target, or even emotional impacts. Crossword setters use this ambiguity to create challenging clues, leading to a wide range of possible synonyms.
How can I determine the correct 'hits' answer for my puzzle?
The best approach is to use the intersecting letters from other solved clues. Also, pay close attention to the nuance of the clue itself. Does it suggest a forceful strike, a popular success, or a connection? Consider the number of letters required for the answer as well, as this significantly narrows down the options.
Are there common patterns for 'hits' type clues?
While there's no single pattern, clues for 'hits' often play on its various definitions. Look for indicators of verb tense (e.g., 'hitting' for an -ING word), plurality ('hits' for a plural answer), or specific scenarios (e.g., 'boxer's hits' might imply jabs or punches). The more specific the clue, the easier it is to pinpoint the exact synonym.