oblige crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "oblige crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, neatly categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you across the finish line of your puzzle.
Solutions for "oblige crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BIND: To place a legal or moral obligation on someone.
5 Letters
FORCE: To make someone do something, especially by physical means or necessity.
6 Letters
COMPEL: To force or require someone to do something.
7 Letters
REQUIRE: To need something or make something necessary.
More About "oblige crossword clue"
"Oblige" is a versatile verb that frequently appears in crosswords due to its multiple meanings. Primarily, it means to put someone under a moral or legal obligation, or to constrain them to do something. This leads to common crossword answers like BIND, COMPEL, or FORCE, which directly convey this sense of requiring an action from someone. Understanding this core meaning is crucial when tackling such clues.
However, "oblige" can also mean to do someone a favor or a service, as in "oblige a friend." While this interpretation is less common in direct synonym clues for 'oblige', it's good to keep in mind for more cryptic or nuanced puzzles. Always consider the number of letters and any existing letters you have in the grid, as these are your best guides to determine the exact intended meaning in the puzzle maker's mind.
The beauty of crossword clues like "oblige" lies in their ability to test your vocabulary breadth and your understanding of semantic nuances. By exploring all potential meanings and their synonyms, you can unlock even the trickiest puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms carefully: For action verbs like "oblige," think of all possible synonyms that fit the exact definition you suspect. Don't just stick to the first one that comes to mind.
- Check word length: Always match your potential answer's letter count to the specified length in the puzzle. This is the single most effective way to eliminate incorrect guesses.
- Look at intersecting words: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them as powerful hints. These letters often confirm or eliminate possibilities, guiding you to the correct answer for "oblige" or any other clue.
- Think about context: Is the puzzle themed? Does the clue imply a specific type of action (e.g., legal, moral, physical)? Context can sometimes narrow down the meaning of a versatile word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'oblige' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'oblige' typically refers to making someone do something, compelling them, or placing a requirement upon them. It can also imply a favor or courtesy, but its primary crossword use leans towards a sense of duty or necessity.
How can I find answers to verb-based crossword clues like 'oblige'?
For verb-based clues, consider synonyms that are also verbs. Think about different tenses (past, present) or forms (e.g., 'obliged' or 'obliging') if indicated by the clue. Also, look for words that describe the *effect* of obliging, such as 'compel' or 'force'.
Are there common pitfalls when solving clues like 'oblige'?
One common pitfall is confusing 'oblige' with 'oblige a request', which implies granting a favor. While 'oblige' can mean that, in crosswords it often means to *compel* or *require*. Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting letters you already have to narrow down the exact meaning.