let it stand crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "let it stand" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "let it stand crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
STET: This is a Latin word meaning 'let it stand'. It's commonly used in proofreading to indicate that something marked for deletion or change should, in fact, remain as is.
9 Letters
LEAVEASIS: A direct phrase indicating that something should remain in its current state without alteration or improvement.
More About "let it stand crossword clue"
The clue "let it stand" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing due to its concise and somewhat specific primary answer: STET. Originating from Latin, "stet" literally translates to "let it stand" or "may it stand," and it holds a significant place in the lexicon of editors and proofreaders. When a proofreader marks a change on a manuscript, but then decides to revert to the original text, they write "stet" in the margin.
Understanding this specific term is key to quickly solving the clue. While "STET" is the most frequent answer for shorter puzzles, longer or more complex crosswords might use phrases like "LEAVEASIS" or even "DO NOT ALTER" to convey the same meaning. The beauty of this clue lies in its directness and its link to a fascinating aspect of language usage and editing history.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Latin: Many crossword clues, especially shorter ones, often have Latin roots. Terms like "stet," "e.g." (exempli gratia), or "i.e." (id est) are common. Always consider Latin or foreign words when a clue seems too short for a common English phrase.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: For clues that suggest an action or state, think about phrasal verbs. While "let it stand" directly points to "STET," other clues might require a phrase like "give up" or "put down."
- Check Word Lengths: Always pay close attention to the number of letters indicated. This is your primary constraint. If "let it stand" requires 4 letters, "STET" is a strong candidate. If it requires more, you'll need a longer phrase or a less common synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'let it stand' mean in a crossword context?
In a crossword context, 'let it stand' is a direct instruction, often pointing to words or phrases that mean 'to leave unchanged' or 'to allow to remain'. The most common answer is 'STET', which is a Latin term used in editing.
Why is 'STET' a common answer for 'let it stand'?
STET is a Latin word literally meaning 'let it stand'. It has been adopted into English, particularly in proofreading and editing, as a marginal notation instructing that text previously marked for alteration or deletion should be restored or remain as it was. Its concise nature makes it perfect for crosswords.
Are there other phrases similar to 'let it stand' in crosswords?
Yes, clues like 'don't touch', 'leave as is', 'keep as found', or 'preserve' can convey a similar meaning. Always consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities.