increases crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "increases crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and understand the answers better.
Solutions for "increases crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ADDS: To join or combine to increase the quantity or amount of something.
5 Letters
GROWS: To become larger or more numerous, especially over a period of time.
RISES: To move upwards or to increase in amount, level, or extent.
6 Letters
BOOSTS: To help improve, develop, or increase something, often in performance or morale.
8 Letters
AUGMENTS: To make something greater by adding to it; to increase its value or effectiveness.
9 Letters
ESCALATES: To increase rapidly in extent, volume, or intensity, often in a serious or undesirable way.
More About "increases crossword clue"
The clue "increases" is a staple in crossword puzzles due to its wide range of synonyms and contexts. It can refer to a simple mathematical addition, a natural process of growth, a rise in temperature or volume, or even an escalation of tension or activity. Understanding the various facets of "increases" is key to pinpointing the correct answer in your puzzle.
Crossword setters love this clue because it allows for diverse word lengths and can be combined with other words to create more complex clues, testing your vocabulary and lateral thinking. For instance, "increases (by steps)" might lead to a different answer than "increases (volume)." Always consider the exact phrasing and any accompanying words in the clue.
When solving, think about the part of speech – is it a verb (e.g., grows, adds) or a noun (e.g., gains, rises)? The context provided by surrounding clues or the overall theme of the puzzle can also offer vital hints. Mastering clues like "increases" will significantly improve your crossword solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the provided letter count with potential answers. This is the fastest way to narrow down options for clues like "increases."
- Consider Nuance and Context: While many words mean "increase," their connotations differ. Does the clue imply growth, addition, a rise, or an intensification? The specific nuance can guide you to the precise answer.
- Look for Common Crossword Synonyms: Crosswords often reuse certain words for common concepts. Familiarize yourself with frequently used synonyms for "increases" like ADDS, GROWS, RISES, and BOOSTS.
- Use Helper Letters: Don't be afraid to fill in surrounding answers first. Even one correct letter can be enough to reveal a challenging word like AUGMENTS or ESCALATES.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does 'increases' appear as a crossword clue?
'Increases' is a very common and versatile crossword clue. It can refer to physical growth, numerical addition, intensity, or even a rise in status, making its answers quite diverse and frequent across many puzzles.
What are common synonyms for 'increases' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'increases' used in crosswords include ADDS, GROWS, RISES, UPS, SWELLS, BOOSTS, AUGMENTS, ENLARGES, and ESCALATES, among others. The specific answer often depends on the number of letters required and the nuance of the clue.
Can 'increases' imply an upward movement in a crossword?
Yes, absolutely! 'Increases' can strongly imply an upward movement or a rise, leading to answers like RISES, SOARS, or CLIMBS, depending on the context of the puzzle and the number of letters.