influences crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "influences" in your latest crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your grid with confidence.
Solutions for "influences crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SWAYS: To persuade someone to a particular opinion or course of action. Often implies a gentle or subtle form of influence.
6 Letters
GUIDES: To show or direct the way to someone or something. Can refer to setting a direction or standard.
SHAPES: To determine the nature of; to develop or mold. Implies a formative impact on character, policy, or appearance.
MOULDS: To form or cause to form into a particular shape or by particular influence. Similar to shapes, emphasizing formation.
DRIVES: To cause or compel to move in a particular direction, often suggesting a strong motivating influence.
7 Letters
AFFECTS: To have an effect on; make a difference to. A very direct and common synonym for influence.
IMPACTS: To have a strong effect on someone or something. Suggests a forceful or significant influence.
More About "influences crossword clue"
"Influences" is a fantastic crossword clue because of its versatility. It can refer to a subtle guiding hand, a forceful persuasion, or the shaping of character or policy. This breadth means that many different verbs can serve as solutions, making it crucial to use intersecting letters from other clues to pinpoint the exact word the setter had in mind. Common themes associated with 'influences' in crosswords often include power, control, guidance, or even artistic inspiration.
Understanding the nuance of the clue is key. Does it imply a slow, gradual change, or a sudden, dramatic effect? Crossword compilers love to play on these subtle differences. For instance, 'SWAYS' suggests a gentle, persuasive influence, while 'IMPACTS' implies something much stronger and more immediate. Always consider the context of the puzzle, whether it's a general knowledge crossword or a themed one.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check for Tense and Number: Ensure your answer matches the clue's tense and number. "Influences" is plural and present tense, so your answer should be too (e.g., AFFECTS, not AFFECTED).
- Consider British vs. American English: Some answers, like MOULDS (British) vs. MOLDS (American), might vary depending on the puzzle's origin. Our site caters to UK-based puzzles, but it's always good to be aware.
- Look for Hidden Meanings: Crossword setters often use wordplay. Could "influences" imply something flowing in, like an 'INFLOW' (though less likely for this exact clue, always keep an eye out for such tricks)?
- Utilize Intersecting Clues: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it fits with the letters of crossing words. If a word doesn't quite fit, it's likely not the correct solution, even if it's a valid synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best strategy for solving crossword clues related to influence?
When encountering a clue like 'influences,' focus on synonyms for words such as 'affect,' 'sway,' 'control,' or 'direct.' Consider the nuance implied by the clue – is it a positive or negative influence, subtle or forceful? Always pay close attention to the number of letters required and how the answer fits with intersecting words.
Why are there so many possible answers for 'influences'?
'Influences' is a broad concept with numerous synonyms, each carrying slightly different connotations depending on the specific context (e.g., political influence, artistic influence, personal influence). Crossword setters often use such versatile words to allow for multiple valid solutions, relying on intersecting clues to narrow down the correct choice.
How do I know if an 'influence' answer is a verb or a noun?
Determine if the clue 'influences' is being used as a plural verb (e.g., 'he influences opinion') or if the setter is looking for a noun that represents an influence (e.g., 'power' or 'clout'). If the clue uses 'influences' as presented, it strongly suggests a plural verb answer (like AFFECTS or SWAYS). If it were a noun, the clue might be phrased differently, such as 'Effect' or 'Pull'.