imprison crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "imprison crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the most common and relevant solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "imprison crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CAGE: To confine someone, often in a restrictive space, similar to an animal in a cage.
JAIL: To put someone in prison or a detention facility.
HOLD: To keep someone in custody or under restraint.
TRAP: To catch and hold someone or something, often against their will or movement.
6 Letters
DETAIN: To hold someone in official custody, often temporarily, without full arrest or trial.
LOCKUP: To confine someone, typically in a jail cell or similar secure place.
7 Letters
CONFINE: To restrict someone or something within certain limits or an enclosed area.
ENCLOSE: To surround or close off a space, thereby confining someone or something within it.
11 Letters
INCARCERATE: A more formal term meaning to imprison or confine, typically in a jail or prison.
More About "imprison crossword clue"
The clue "imprison" is a common one in crosswords, often requiring a verb that describes the act of restricting freedom or movement. This can range from literal confinement in a jail to metaphorical "trapping" or "holding" someone. Puzzlers should consider the specific context of the clue, as well as any accompanying words or phrases that might suggest a more precise meaning or a particular word length.
Crossword setters love to play with synonyms and related concepts. For "imprison," this means not just direct synonyms like 'jail' or 'confine', but also words describing the state of being imprisoned, or even the structure that holds someone (e.g., 'cage'). Always keep an open mind and think about the various facets of the word.
Understanding the nuance of the clue is key. For example, 'detain' implies a temporary holding, while 'incarcerate' suggests a more long-term, official imprisonment. The number of letters available in your puzzle grid will often be the biggest hint as to which specific synonym the setter is looking for.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Before anything else, always count the number of available boxes. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for words like "imprison."
- Check Crossing Letters: Use letters from already-solved crossing clues. Even one or two letters can significantly help you guess or confirm the correct "imprison" synonym.
- Consider Nuances of Synonyms: Think about the subtle differences between words like 'detain' (temporary) versus 'incarcerate' (long-term). The clue might give a hint about the specific type of imprisonment.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: Sometimes, clues play on words that sound alike or have double meanings. While less common for "imprison," it's always worth considering if you're truly stumped.
- Consult a Thesaurus: If you're struggling to brainstorm synonyms for "imprison," a quick look at a thesaurus can spark ideas for words you might not have thought of.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'imprison' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'imprison' typically refers to actions that involve confining, detaining, locking up, or restricting someone's freedom or movement. Answers can range from literal places of detention to more general verbs of restraint.
Are there common synonyms for 'imprison' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms often used as answers include CAGE, JAIL, DETAIN, CONFINE, LOCKUP, and sometimes even less direct terms like HOLD or TRAP depending on the clue's nuance.
How can I figure out the length of an 'imprison' answer?
The length of the answer is crucial. Always check the number of dashes or boxes provided in the puzzle grid. If the clue offers additional context, like 'imprison, four letters', it directly tells you the length. Otherwise, use crossing letters from other clues to narrow down possibilities.