maintain crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "maintain crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "maintain crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEP: To continue to have or hold something in a particular state or position.
HOLD: To possess or retain; to cause to remain in a particular place or position.
6 Letters
RETAIN: To continue to have something; to keep possession of.
UPHOLD: To maintain or support (a custom, idea, or institution) against opposition.
7 Letters
SUSTAIN: To cause to continue or be prolonged for an extended period or without interruption.
SUPPORT: To hold up or bear the weight of; to provide with a basis, ground, or reason.
8 Letters
PRESERVE: To keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, or loss.
CONSERVE: To protect (something, especially an environmentally or culturally important place or thing) from harm or destruction.
More About "maintain crossword"
"Maintain" is a versatile verb that frequently appears in crossword puzzles due to its many synonyms and contextual uses. It can imply keeping something in good working order, continuing a status quo, asserting a belief, or providing physical or moral support. The specific nuance required by the crossword clue often dictates which synonym is the correct fit.
Crossword setters love words like "maintain" because they allow for clever misdirection or subtle hints. For example, a clue might say "Maintain one's innocence" leading to "ALLEGE", or "Maintain a garden" for "TEND". Always consider the broader context of the clue, not just the single word "maintain" in isolation, to find the most accurate answer.
Understanding the different shades of meaning for "maintain" will greatly enhance your ability to solve related crossword clues. From simply holding onto something to actively supporting a cause, the spectrum of meanings provides ample opportunity for challenging yet solvable puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters in the answer you need. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Analyze the Context: Look at the entire clue. Does "maintain" imply physical upkeep, a state of being, or an assertion? The surrounding words are crucial.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Familiarize yourself with words like KEEP, HOLD, RETAIN, UPHOLD, and SUSTAIN, as they are staples for "maintain" clues.
- Use Cross-References: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers. This is often the most effective strategy.
- Think of Homophones/Puns: Sometimes clues for "maintain" might hint at a play on words related to keeping something.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'maintain' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'maintain' typically refers to keeping something in a certain state, continuing an action, or providing support. This can lead to various synonyms like KEEP, HOLD, RETAIN, UPHOLD, SUSTAIN, or PRESERVE, depending on the exact nuance and letter count required by the puzzle.
How can I find the correct answer for 'maintain' when there are multiple options?
To pinpoint the correct answer, first check the number of letters required. Then, consider the surrounding letters already filled in your puzzle. The specific context of the clue might also hint at a particular synonym (e.g., 'maintain a reputation' might lean towards UPHOLD, while 'maintain freshness' might suggest PRESERVE). Using a reliable crossword solver or dictionary can also help narrow down choices.
Are there common synonyms for 'maintain' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'maintain' frequently appearing in crosswords include KEEP, HOLD, RETAIN, UPHOLD, SUSTAIN, and PRESERVE. Less common but possible alternatives might include ALLEGE (to maintain an assertion) or NOURISH (to maintain growth). Always cross-reference with the letter count and surrounding clues for the best fit.