keep crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "keep crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, along with their explanations and letter counts, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "keep crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HOLD: To retain possession of something, or to maintain a position.
5 Letters
GUARD: To protect or watch over something, keeping it safe.
6 Letters
RETAIN: To continue to have or possess something; to keep possession of.
7 Letters
OBSERVE: To adhere to or follow a custom, rule, or holiday; to keep a tradition.
8 Letters
MAINTAIN: To cause or enable a condition or state of affairs to continue.
PRESERVE: To maintain (something) in its original or existing state; to keep intact.
More About "keep crossword clue"
The clue "keep" is a common one in crosswords, often appearing in various forms and contexts. Its versatility stems from its many meanings, ranging from holding onto an object to observing a tradition or maintaining a state. When you encounter "keep" in a crossword, it's crucial to consider the number of letters required for the answer, as this will significantly narrow down the possibilities.
Crossword setters love to play with words that have multiple interpretations, and "keep" is a prime example. It can refer to physical retention (like 'hold' or 'store'), protection (like 'guard'), preservation (like 'maintain' or 'preserve'), or even adherence to rules or customs (like 'observe' or 'abide'). Always consider the overall theme of the puzzle and any surrounding letters that might already be filled in your grid.
Understanding the nuances of such a seemingly simple word can unlock many crossword challenges. By exploring its synonyms and different uses, you can anticipate the setter's intent and find the correct solution, enhancing your overall puzzle-solving experience.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all synonyms: For a word like "keep," brainstorm every possible synonym you can think of. Don't limit yourself to just the most common ones.
- Check word length: Always use the given letter count to eliminate answers that don't fit. This is the most effective way to narrow down options.
- Context is key: Look at the other clues and the puzzle's theme. Is it a pun? Is it a specific type of crossword (e.g., cryptic, quick)? The context can often hint at the less obvious meaning of "keep."
- Fill in crossing letters first: If you're unsure, try solving other clues that intersect with "keep." The letters you fill in will provide valuable hints for the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to find answers for short crossword clues like 'keep'?
Start by considering synonyms and different meanings of the word 'keep'. Think about its various uses as a verb (e.g., retain, store, maintain, obey) or even a noun (e.g., a fortress or stronghold). Often, shorter clues have direct, common synonyms as answers, so brainstorming related words is a good first step.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills for action-oriented clues?
Practice regularly, expand your vocabulary, and pay attention to common crossword conventions like abbreviations, homophones, and double meanings. For action-oriented clues like 'keep', consider various tenses (kept, keeping) or related concepts. Also, learning common suffixes and prefixes can be helpful.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Many words have multiple synonyms or can be interpreted in different contexts. Crossword setters sometimes use this ambiguity to make puzzles more challenging. The surrounding letters, which form other words in the grid, will help you narrow down the correct answer. Always check the crossing letters to confirm your choice.