hold forth crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "hold forth," you've come to the right place. This page provides all known solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below, you'll find answers categorized by their letter count, along with clear descriptions to ensure you pick the perfect fit.
Solutions for "hold forth" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ORATE: To deliver a formal speech or speak at length, often in an eloquent or bombastic manner.
SPOUT: To speak a lot, often in a boring or pompous way, or to express one's views volubly and uncritically.
6 Letters
PREACH: To deliver a religious sermon, or more generally, to advocate or advise earnestly and at length.
7 Letters
LECTURE: To give an educational talk to an audience, or to scold someone at length.
8 Letters
HARANGUE: To deliver a lengthy and aggressive speech, typically a critical or denunciatory one.
More About "hold forth" in Crosswords
"Hold forth" is a common phrase that often appears in crossword puzzles, typically referring to the act of speaking at length, often in a formal, didactic, or even pompous manner. The beauty and challenge of this clue lie in its various nuanced synonyms, which can range from straightforward speech to more specific types of address like sermons, lectures, or passionate tirades.
When you encounter "hold forth" in a crossword, consider the context implied. Is it a formal speaker (ORATE), someone delivering moral lessons (PREACH), an educator (LECTURE), or perhaps someone engaged in a lengthy, aggressive verbal attack (HARANGUE)? The number of letters in the answer slot is your primary guide, but also pay attention to any crossing letters which will confirm your choice.
Understanding these different facets of "holding forth" is key to quickly solving the clue. Crossword setters love to play on these subtle distinctions, making it essential for solvers to have a broad vocabulary of synonyms for common phrases like this one.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "hold forth," think beyond the most obvious synonym. Consider the tone or intent implied by the phrase. Is it a formal speech, a scolding, or a fervent discussion?
- Count the Letters: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the single most important filter when multiple answers seem possible for a given clue.
- Use Intersecting Clues: Don't try to solve a tricky clue in isolation. Once you have a few letters from crossing words, plug them into your potential answers for "hold forth" to see which one fits perfectly.
- Think About Context: Sometimes, the theme of the crossword or the general style of the setter can give hints. If it's a puzzle about education, "LECTURE" might be more likely than "PREACH."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hold forth' mean in a crossword clue?
'Hold forth' in a crossword clue typically refers to speaking at length, often in a formal, didactic, or perhaps even a pompous manner. Common synonyms include 'preach,' 'lecture,' 'orate,' or 'spout.' The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and other intersecting clues, as well as the context the clue implies (e.g., formal speech, sermon, scolding).
How can I find the correct answer when a clue has multiple meanings?
When a clue like 'hold forth' has multiple potential answers, it's crucial to look at the intersecting letters from other clues. The number of letters in the answer slot is also a primary indicator. Sometimes, the crossword's theme or the constructor's style can offer subtle hints. Don't be afraid to try out a possible answer and see if it fits with surrounding words, and always verify with other crossing clues.
Are there different types of 'holding forth' in crosswords?
Yes, 'holding forth' can refer to different styles of speaking. For example, 'PREACH' implies a sermon or moralizing, 'LECTURE' suggests an educational or scolding tone, while 'ORATE' implies a formal, possibly grandiloquent speech. 'SPOUT' or 'HARANGUE' might suggest a more aggressive, tiresome, or less formal delivery. The nuance often determines the exact answer required, so consider the implied tone.