matches crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stumped by the clue "matches crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below, you'll find solutions organized by their letter count, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your grid.
Solutions for "matches crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FITS: Often implies something is the correct size or shape, like a key fitting a lock or clothes fitting a person.
TIES: Refers to a situation where two or more competitors achieve the same score or result in a game or contest.
5 Letters
EQUAL: Means being the same in quantity, size, degree, value, or status.
SUITS: Suggests something is appropriate, convenient, or agreeable to someone or something. Also, a set of clothes designed to be worn together.
6 Letters
AGREES: To have the same opinion, be in accord, or correspond in properties or qualities.
SPARKS: Small, incandescent particles, often produced by friction or from a burning material like a match.
7 Letters
KINDLES: To light or set on fire, especially wood or other fuel, relating directly to the function of a match.
8 Letters
COMPETES: To strive to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others, i.e., to match against others.
11 Letters
CORRESPONDS: To be in agreement or conformity with something; to be equivalent or parallel.
More About "matches crossword clue"
The clue "matches" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to multiple interpretations and, consequently, multiple solutions. It can refer to items that are alike or in agreement, such as when one thing "matches" another in color or characteristic. This interpretation often points to synonyms like EQUAL, SUITS, or AGREES, suggesting conformity or suitability.
However, "matches" also strongly alludes to the small wooden or cardboard sticks used to ignite fire. In this context, answers like KINDLES or SPARKS become highly relevant, tapping into the primary function of a matchstick. Furthermore, the word can imply competition, as in two rivals "matching" wits or strength, leading to answers like COMPETES or RIVALS.
The ambiguity of such clues highlights the fun and challenge of crosswords. To solve them, it's crucial to consider the context of the puzzle, any crossing letters you already have, and the intended word length. Each potential meaning of "matches" opens up a new avenue for a correct answer, making it a classic crossword setter's favorite.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: For words like "matches" with multiple meanings (e.g., to be similar, to ignite, to compete), think through each potential interpretation.
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the required number of letters. This is the most crucial filter for narrowing down possibilities.
- Look at Crossings: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues are your best friends. They eliminate many incorrect answers instantly.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Many clues rely on direct synonyms. Sometimes, an antonym might be clued as an opposite or negative.
- Practice Regularly: The more crosswords you do, the more familiar you'll become with common clue types, wordplay, and recurring answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find answers to cryptic crossword clues?
Cryptic clues often involve wordplay like anagrams, homophones, charades, or hidden words. Look for indicator words that suggest a certain type of wordplay. Practice and understanding common cryptic conventions are key.
What should I do if I only have a few letters of a crossword answer?
Use online crossword solvers or dictionaries that allow pattern matching (e.g., using a '?' or '.' for unknown letters). Consider common prefixes and suffixes that fit the pattern.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Many words have multiple meanings or synonyms, leading to various valid solutions depending on context. Crossword setters sometimes intentionally use ambiguous clues to increase difficulty or provide alternative paths to completion.