it may detain one crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "it may detain one crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and sharpen your crossword skills.
Solutions for "it may detain one crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
JAIL: A correctional facility where individuals are confined.
CELL: A small room, especially in a prison, where a person is confined.
GRIP: A firm hold; often used figuratively to mean control or detention.
6 Letters
ARREST: The act of seizing someone by legal authority and taking them into custody.
PRISON: An institution for the confinement of persons convicted of crimes or awaiting trial.
More About "it may detain one crossword clue"
The clue "it may detain one" is a classic example of how crossword setters use versatile words to create engaging puzzles. "Detain" can refer to a literal confinement, such as being held by law enforcement or in a correctional facility. This leads to answers like JAIL, PRISON, or ARREST, focusing on the legal and physical aspects of being held.
However, the beauty of such clues lies in their potential for figurative interpretation. "Detain" can also mean to hold back, delay, or even to capture one's attention or interest. In this sense, answers like GRIP (as in, "the book had a strong grip on my attention") become plausible. Crossword solvers must consider both the literal and metaphorical meanings of the words to successfully navigate these clues.
The specific context of the puzzle, including the word length and any intersecting letters, is crucial for determining which interpretation of "detain" the setter intends. It challenges solvers to think broadly about synonyms and related concepts, making the process of finding the solution both a linguistic exercise and a detective game.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Different Meanings: Always think about both the literal and figurative meanings of a word like "detain." Does it imply physical confinement or merely a holding of attention or progress?
- Check Surrounding Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These are often the most reliable way to narrow down the possibilities when multiple answers fit the definition.
- Think About Word Length: Knowing the exact number of letters significantly reduces the pool of potential answers. Our answers are organized by length to help you quickly pinpoint options.
- Brainstorm Synonyms and Antonyms: For words like "detain," think of all synonyms (hold, confine, delay, impede) and even their opposites, as sometimes clues can be indirect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of answers can "it may detain one" refer to?
Answers can range from literal places of confinement (like JAIL or PRISON) to actions of holding (ARREST) or even figurative concepts of holding someone's attention or progress (GRIP).
How can I identify the correct answer if there are multiple options for a clue like this?
The best approach is to cross-reference with intersecting words. The specific number of letters required for the answer is also a crucial hint. Context from other solved clues in the puzzle can sometimes help too.
Is "detain" always literal in crosswords?
No, not always. While literal interpretations like "prison" or "arrest" are common, setters often use words like "detain" to hint at broader concepts such as holding attention, impeding progress, or simply a firm hold. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings.