loosen crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "loosen" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer. Let's get that puzzle solved!
Solutions for "loosen crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EASE: To make less tight or intense, often referring to a grip or tension.
UNDO: To reverse the doing of something, often implying the loosening of a fastening.
5 Letters
UNTIE: To undo a knot or a fastening, allowing something to become loose.
RELAX: To become less tense or rigid, which implies loosening.
7 Letters
SLACKEN: To make or become less tight, or to reduce the speed or intensity of something.
8 Letters
UNCLENCH: To open a clenched fist or release a tight grip, a specific way to loosen.
UNFASTEN: To undo or open the fastening of something, thereby loosening it.
More About "loosen crossword clue"
The clue "loosen" is a versatile one in crosswords, often appearing in various contexts that demand careful consideration of the specific nuance. It can refer to physical actions, such as untying a knot or unfastening a belt, or more abstract concepts, like easing tension or relaxing a rule. The key to solving such clues lies in examining the surrounding words in the clue for contextual hints.
For instance, if the clue is "loosen a tie," UNTIE would be a strong candidate. If it's "loosen one's grip," then UNCLENCH or RELAX might be more appropriate. Crossword setters love to play on these subtle distinctions, so always think about the literal and figurative meanings implied by the clue. Look for clues that might suggest a reversal (e.g., words like 'undo' or 'unfasten' hidden within the definition).
Remember that synonyms for 'loosen' are plentiful, ranging from informal terms to more formal ones. Familiarity with a wide vocabulary related to release, relaxation, and reduction of tightness will significantly improve your chances of solving these types of clues quickly and accurately.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For clues like "loosen," think of its direct synonyms but also its antonyms (tighten, fasten) and how a reversal might be clued.
- Check letter counts carefully: Our list provides answers by letter count. Always double-check the number of letters in your grid against our suggestions.
- Look for prefixes/suffixes: Words like UNTIE, UNCLENCH, UNFASTEN are common answers for "loosen" because the 'UN-' prefix often indicates the reverse action.
- Use surrounding letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to narrow down the possible answers for "loosen."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'loosen' typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'loosen' often points to actions that reduce tension, release a grip, undo a fastening, or make something less restrictive. Common answers include synonyms like UNTIE, EASE, SLACKEN, or RELAX.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes related to 'loosen' answers?
Yes, answers for 'loosen' often use prefixes like 'UN-' (e.g., UNTIE, UNCLENCH, UNFASTEN) which signifies the reversal of an action, or simple verbs that convey relaxation or reduction of tension.
How can context help with 'loosen' clues?
The surrounding words in the clue are vital. For example, 'loosen a knot' strongly suggests UNTIE, while 'loosen one's grip' might lead to UNCLENCH or RELAX. Always consider the precise object or action being loosened.