obtain by force crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "obtain by force," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "obtain by force crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WREST: To pull, twist, or force (something) from someone's grasp, often with effort or violence.
SEIZE: To take hold of (something) suddenly and forcibly, or to take possession of (territory or property) by force.
6 Letters
EXTORT: To obtain (something, especially money or information) by force, threats, or other unfair means.
COERCE: To persuade (an unwilling person) to do something by using force or threats.
8 Letters
ARROGATE: To take or claim (something) without justification; appropriate to oneself.
More About "obtain by force crossword clue"
The phrase "obtain by force" in crossword puzzles is a classic way to test your vocabulary related to coercion, power dynamics, and unauthorized acquisition. Clues like this often require you to think beyond simple synonyms and consider the nuances of how something is taken or acquired without consent. It encompasses a range of actions, from physical exertion to psychological pressure or legal maneuvers.
When encountering this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a historical puzzle, hinting at invasions or conquests? Is it a modern-day puzzle, perhaps referring to corporate takeovers or criminal acts? The length of the answer is crucial, as shorter words like 'wrest' or 'seize' might fit a physical act, while longer words like 'extort' or 'arrogate' imply more complex, often illegal, processes of acquisition.
Understanding the Latin or Greek roots of words related to force or taking can also be immensely helpful. For example, 'extort' comes from Latin 'extorquere' meaning 'to twist out', highlighting the forceful nature of obtaining. This type of clue is a fantastic example of how crosswords combine linguistic challenge with a broader understanding of human actions and their consequences.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: "Obtain by force" can mean different things. Is it a physical taking (wrest, seize), a financial one (extort), or an assertion of power (usurp, arrogate)? Consider the subtle differences in meaning.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the grid to the possible answers. This is your most powerful filter.
- Look for Cross-References: Often, one answer's letter will help you confirm or rule out another. If you have a letter from a crossing word, try fitting it into potential answers for "obtain by force."
- Consider Synonyms for Both Parts: Break down the clue into its core components: "obtain" (acquire, get, take) and "by force" (violently, coercively, without permission). Brainstorm words that combine these concepts.
- Think About Context: If other clues in the puzzle are related to crime, law, or history, the answer for 'obtain by force' might lean towards terms used in those fields.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'obtain by force' imply in a crossword clue?
In a crossword, 'obtain by force' typically suggests an action involving coercion, violence, or an unauthorized taking. It points to verbs that describe acquiring something through power rather than consent or negotiation. Words like 'extort', 'wrest', or 'seize' fit this description perfectly.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for words meaning 'by force'?
While there aren't universally common prefixes or suffixes specifically for 'by force' words, you'll often find words derived from Latin roots implying 'out' or 'away' (like 'ex-' in 'extort') or 'against' (like 'con-' in 'coerce' or 'compel'). The context often relies more on the base verb's meaning.
How can I differentiate between similar answers like 'wrest' and 'extort'?
While both imply force, 'WREST' often refers to physically taking something from someone's grasp or control, or struggling to gain something. 'EXTORT' specifically refers to obtaining something, usually money or information, through threats or intimidation, rather than direct physical taking. Pay attention to the subtle nuances of the clue for hints.