hold back crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on a clue that means "hold back", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your puzzle.
Solutions for "hold back crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CURB: To restrain or control, often used in the context of emotions or behavior.
STEM: To stop or check the flow or advance of something, as in 'stemming the tide'.
6 Letters
HINDER: To create difficulties for someone or something, resulting in delay or obstruction.
RETAIN: To keep possession of something; to continue to have something, implying holding it back from loss or release.
STIFLE: To prevent or constrain an activity or idea; to suppress (a feeling).
8 Letters
RESTRAIN: To prevent someone or something from doing something; keep under control or check.
More About "hold back crossword"
"Hold back" is a versatile phrase that can appear in crosswords with a range of meanings, often requiring careful consideration of the clue's nuance. It commonly refers to physical restraint, such as holding an object or person from moving forward. However, it can also signify emotional suppression, like holding back tears or anger, or hindering progress, as in holding back a project or development.
Understanding the context is crucial. Is the clue hinting at a verb of action, a state of being, or a consequence? For instance, 'Hold back the dog' would likely point to an action like CURB or RESTRAIN, while 'Hold back feelings' might suggest STIFLE or SUPPRESS. Being aware of these different interpretations can significantly narrow down your options and lead you to the correct solution.
Crossword setters love to play with synonyms, so thinking broadly about words that mean to stop, limit, keep, or prevent will serve you well. Regularly encountering clues like "hold back" will train your brain to quickly associate them with their most common crossword counterparts, making future puzzles easier to solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Wordplay: Many "hold back" clues rely on double meanings. Could it refer to holding back tears (STIFLE) or holding back a sum of money (RETAIN)? Consider both literal and figurative interpretations.
- Check for Anagrams & Homophones: While less common for simple 'hold back' clues, complex variations might hide anagrams or homophones. Always keep an eye out for these trickier clue types.
- Look at Surrounding Letters: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They'll confirm your suspicions and help you pick the correct answer from multiple possibilities of the same length.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: Some crosswords have a theme that might subtly influence the choice of answer. A puzzle about emotions might favor STIFLE over HINDER, even if both fit the direct meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hold back' typically mean in a crossword clue?
'Hold back' usually refers to restraining, impeding, or preventing something or someone from progressing or being revealed. It can also imply keeping something reserved or hidden, like emotions or information.
Are there common letter patterns for 'hold back' answers?
Yes, common lengths include 4-letter words like CURB or STEM, 6-letter words such as HINDER or RETAIN, and longer options like RESTRAIN (8 letters). The specific context of the clue and surrounding letters will often guide you to the correct length.
How can I improve my ability to solve 'hold back' type clues?
Focus on synonyms for 'restrain,' 'impede,' 'reserve,' or 'control.' Consider if the clue implies physical restraint, emotional suppression, or delaying progress. Also, pay attention to any accompanying words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning, such as 'emotions' or 'progress.'