play for time crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "play for time," you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate solutions with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Explore all possible answers below, organized by letter count.
Solutions for "play for time crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
STALL: To delay or put off action, often deliberately, to gain time.
DELAY: To make someone or something late or to put off until a later time.
10 Letters
FILIBUSTER: To act in an obstructive manner in a legislature, especially by speaking at inordinate length.
13 Letters
PROCRASTINATE: To delay or postpone action; put off doing something.
More About "play for time crossword clue"
"Play for time" is a common idiom that signifies delaying an action or decision to gain an advantage, wait for a better opportunity, or avoid an immediate confrontation. In crossword puzzles, clues like this often test your knowledge of synonyms for postponement, obstruction, or slow action. The context can sometimes hint at a more specific answer, such as a political setting for "FILIBUSTER" or a general scenario for "STALL" or "DELAY."
Understanding the nuance of such phrases is key to solving crosswords. While "STALL" and "DELAY" are broad and frequently appear, longer answers like "PROCRASTINATE" or "FILIBUSTER" offer more specific connotations of holding back. Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they allow for multiple correct answers based on length and specific context, forcing solvers to consider all possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always double-check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial filter for 'play for time' clues, as it narrows down options like STALL (5) versus PROCRASTINATE (13).
- Consider the Context: If other clues in the puzzle suggest a theme (e.g., politics, sports), an answer like FILIBUSTER might be more likely than a generic DELAY. Pay attention to surrounding words or the puzzle's title.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm synonyms for "delay," "postpone," "hinder," "obstruct." Sometimes thinking of antonyms (e.g., "expedite") can also spark an idea for the correct word.
- Check Cross-References: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them! Even one correct letter can be a game-changer for fitting in the right "play for time" solution.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'play for time' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'play for time' typically refers to actions taken to delay a decision, postpone an event, or gain more time for a particular purpose. Common answers include STALL, DELAY, or even FILIBUSTER, depending on the number of letters required.
How can I identify 'play for time' clues?
These clues often imply delaying tactics, procrastination, or attempts to extend a period. Look for synonyms of delay, postpone, or phrases like 'hold off,' 'drag one's heels,' or 'run out the clock.' The context of the puzzle (e.g., politics for FILIBUSTER) can also be a hint.
Are there common synonyms for 'play for time' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms that appear as answers include STALL, DELAY, PROCRASTINATE, and sometimes more specific terms like FILIBUSTER (especially in political or legal contexts). Always consider the number of letters needed when evaluating these options.