holds back crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "holds back crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "holds back crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CURBS: To restrain or control something, fitting the clue 'holds back'.
6 Letters
CHECKS: Implies to stop or slow the progress of something, aligning with 'holds back'.
7 Letters
REPRESS: To restrain, prevent, or inhibit the expression of a feeling or impulse, directly matching 'holds back'.
8 Letters
RESTRAIN: To prevent (someone or something) from doing something; keep under control or check, which is a perfect fit for 'holds back'.
SUPPRESS: Forcibly put an end to; prevent the development or expression of (something), another strong synonym for 'holds back'.
More About "holds back crossword"
"Holds back" is a common phrase encountered in crosswords, often requiring a synonym related to restraint, hindrance, or control. The ambiguity in its meaning (physical restraint vs. emotional suppression vs. delaying progress) allows for a variety of answers, making it a versatile clue for setters.
When you see this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a literal 'holding back' as in preventing movement, or is it more abstract, like 'holding back emotions'? Answers can range from simple verbs like CURBS or CHECKS to more nuanced terms like REPRESS or STIFLES, each carrying a slightly different shade of meaning but all falling under the umbrella of 'holds back'.
Always cross-reference with letters you've already filled in your puzzle. The number of letters in the required answer is your most reliable guide, narrowing down the possibilities significantly. Understanding these subtle differences and relying on letter count is key to solving such clues effectively.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms broadly: Don't just think of direct equivalents. 'Holds back' can mean 'restrain', 'hinder', 'prevent', 'curb', 'check', 'delay', or even 'repress'.
- Check letter count first: Once you have a few potential answers in mind, immediately check if their letter count matches the space provided in the grid. This is often the quickest way to eliminate possibilities.
- Look at intersecting words: If you're stuck, try solving an intersecting clue. The letters from that solution will fill in part of 'holds back', giving you crucial hints for the correct answer.
- Think of phrasal verbs: Sometimes, a clue like 'holds back' might be part of a larger phrasal verb, but in this case, it functions as a core concept of restraint.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a crossword answer when I'm stuck?
If you're stuck on a crossword clue like 'holds back crossword', try thinking of synonyms for the clue's core meaning. Use a crossword solver or online dictionary. Consider word length, intersecting letters, and the puzzle's theme. Sometimes, looking at other solved clues can give you a hint about the setter's style.
What is the difference between a synonym and an antonym clue?
A synonym clue asks for a word that means the same or similar to the clue (e.g., 'Holds back' for CURBS). An antonym clue asks for a word that means the opposite (e.g., 'Goes forward' for HOLDS BACK, if the clue were reverse-engineered). Most common clues are synonym-based, but antonyms are often indicated by words like 'opposite of' or 'against'.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers of different lengths?
Many words have multiple synonyms or related terms, and crossword setters use this to create variety across puzzles. A clue like 'holds back' can have several valid answers (e.g., CURBS, CHECKS, REPRESS) depending on the grid's requirements for letter count and intersecting words. Context from other solved words in the puzzle is crucial to determine the correct answer for your specific grid.