impede crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: What does 'impede' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'impede' refers to actions or situations that hinder, obstruct, delay, or prevent progress. Clues might use direct synonyms or more descriptive phrases like 'slow down,' 'get in the way of,' or 'frustrate efforts.'

Q: Are there common synonyms for 'impede' used in crosswords?

Yes, common crossword answers for 'impede' include HINDER, OBSTRUCT, HAMPER, BLOCK, BAR, CURB, and FOIL. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and any crossing clues you have filled in.

Welcome! Struggling with the crossword clue "impede"? You've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions ranging across various letter counts, complete with explanations to help you understand the nuances of each answer. Get ready to conquer your puzzle!

Solutions for "impede crossword clue" by Letter Count

3 Letters

BAR: To block or prevent passage or access; often used for physical barriers.

4 Letters

CURB: To restrain or control something, especially to limit its undesirable effects or progress.

FOIL: To prevent someone from accomplishing something; to frustrate or thwart their efforts.

5 Letters

BLOCK: To prevent movement or passage through a space or pathway; to obstruct.

6 Letters

HINDER: To create difficulties for someone or something, resulting in delay or obstruction.

HAMPER: To impede the movement or progress of something or someone, often by creating difficulty or encumbrance.

RETARD: To delay or hold back in terms of progress, development, or accomplishment.

THWART: To prevent (someone) from accomplishing something; to oppose successfully.

8 Letters

OBSTRUCT: To block or put obstacles in the way of something, making progress difficult or impossible.

More About "impede crossword clue"

The word "impede" signifies an action that slows down, obstructs, or prevents progress. In daily language, it can refer to anything from a physical barrier to a policy that hinders development. For crossword enthusiasts, understanding this core meaning is crucial, as clues related to "impede" often test your vocabulary of synonyms that convey this sense of hindrance or obstruction.

Crossword setters love to use words like "impede" because they have a rich array of synonyms across different lengths. This allows for versatile clue crafting, requiring solvers to consider not just the meaning but also the precise number of letters available in the grid. Paying attention to subtle nuances in the clue, such as whether the impediment is physical, metaphorical, or related to progress, can guide you to the most accurate answer.

Whether it's a simple 'BAR' or a more complex 'OBSTRUCT', the underlying concept remains the same: something is getting in the way. By familiarizing yourself with this family of words, you'll be much better equipped to tackle similar clues in future puzzles.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Look for Contextual Clues: Does the clue suggest a physical barrier (like a 'BLOCK' or 'BAR') or a more abstract hindrance (like 'HAMPER' or 'HINDER')? The context can often narrow down your options.
Consider Verb Tense and Part of Speech: Ensure your chosen answer matches the clue's grammatical form. If "impede" is clued as a past tense verb ("impeded"), your answer should also be past tense (e.g., "BLOCKED").
Utilize Crossing Letters: This is fundamental. Even with multiple synonyms, crossing letters from other clues will usually reveal the single correct answer for the specific puzzle.
Think of Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, "impede" might be clued in a way that suggests a phrasal verb, like "hold up" or "tie down," which might lead to different answers fitting the specific letter count.
Brainstorm Synonyms: Before looking up answers, try to list as many words as you can think of that mean "impede." This practice improves your vocabulary and crossword-solving speed over time.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "impede" mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, "impede" typically means to hinder, obstruct, delay, or prevent progress. Clues might use direct synonyms or more descriptive phrases like 'slow down,' 'get in the way of,' or 'frustrate efforts.'

Are there common synonyms for "impede" used in crosswords?

Yes, common crossword answers for "impede" include HINDER, OBSTRUCT, HAMPER, BLOCK, BAR, CURB, and FOIL. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and any crossing clues you have filled in.

How can I find the correct length for an "impede" answer in my puzzle?

The length of the answer is determined by the crossword grid. Once you have filled in a few crossing letters, you can use those to narrow down the possible synonyms for "impede" that fit both the clue and the existing letters. Our page lists answers by their exact letter count to help you find the right fit quickly.