pilfers crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "pilfers crossword", categorized by word length. We aim to provide clear answers and helpful explanations to get you through your puzzle swiftly.
Solutions for "pilfers crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NABS: To quickly seize or take something, often surreptitiously.
5 Letters
LOOTS: To steal goods, especially during a riot or war.
LIFTS: To illegally take something from a shop; to shoplift.
6 Letters
STEALS: To take another person's property without permission or legal right, often in a secretive manner.
7 Letters
THIEVES: The plural form of a person who steals.
More About "pilfers crossword"
"Pilfer" typically refers to the act of stealing small items or a small amount of something, often without being noticed. In the context of crosswords, clues involving "pilfers" or its past tense "pilfered" are designed to test your knowledge of synonyms for petty theft or secretive appropriation. These clues can sometimes be tricky because the act of pilfering is less about grand larceny and more about discreet, minor acts of taking.
When you encounter a clue like "pilfers crossword," the setter wants you to think beyond just "steal." They might be looking for words that imply taking from a collection, a shop, or a specific type of location. The answers provided above cover a range of these nuances, from the direct synonyms like STEALS to more specific actions like LOOTS (often implies taking during chaos) or LIFTS (specifically shoplifting).
Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms is key to solving such clues. Pay attention to the number of letters required and how the clue might hint at the specific context of the theft. For instance, if the clue suggests a quick, unnoticed act, NABS might be a better fit than a more general term.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For verbs like "pilfers," always brainstorm a wide range of synonyms. Also, think about what the opposite might be, as sometimes clues use antonyms in a roundabout way.
- Check word length: The number of letters is your most important guide. Always match potential answers to the exact number of boxes available.
- Look for context clues: Does the clue mention a specific setting (e.g., a shop, a riot) or manner (e.g., quickly, secretly)? These details can help you choose the most precise synonym.
- Use cross-referencing: If an answer fits horizontally, check if its letters help solve intersecting vertical clues, and vice-versa. This is the cornerstone of crossword solving.
- Think of different tenses/forms: If the clue is a verb like 'pilfers' (present tense, third person singular), consider if the answer could be a past tense verb, a noun derived from the verb, or even a different grammatical form altogether.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'pilfer' typically imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'pilfer' almost always implies taking something small or of little value, or taking something in a sneaky, surreptitious manner. It often points to synonyms for 'steal' that suggest petty theft or snatching.
How do I find the correct length answer for 'pilfers crossword'?
To find the correct length answer, you'll need to know the number of boxes allocated in your crossword grid. Match the provided solutions (NABS, LOOTS, LIFTS, STEALS, THIEVES, etc.) with the exact number of letters required by your puzzle. Sometimes, context from surrounding clues can also help narrow it down.
Are there common alternative spellings or forms for 'pilfers' in crosswords?
While 'pilfers' is a specific verb, crosswords might use its past tense ('pilfered'), its noun form ('pilferer', 'pilfering'), or directly related concepts. Always consider different grammatical forms and close synonyms to broaden your search.