praise highly crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "praise highly", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their length, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "praise highly crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LAUD: To praise someone highly, especially in a formal context or in public.
HAIL: To greet or acclaim enthusiastically, often implying high praise.
5 Letters
EXTOL: To praise enthusiastically, often with great admiration or approval.
7 Letters
COMMEND: To praise formally or officially, often for achievement or good character.
ACCLAIM: To praise or welcome with enthusiastic approval, often by public declaration.
8 Letters
EULOGIZE: To praise someone or something highly in speech or writing, often at a funeral or memorial service.
More About "praise highly crossword puzzle clue"
The clue "praise highly" is a classic example of a crossword setter's favorite tactic: seeking a more elevated or less common synonym for a simple concept. While "praise" itself is a common verb, adding "highly" pushes solvers to think beyond everyday vocabulary towards words that convey intense admiration or formal recognition. This is why answers like EXTOL, LAUD, and EULOGIZE are frequently seen.
These words often carry specific connotations. For instance, 'eulogize' is typically associated with a formal tribute, while 'laud' might appear in contexts of public acclaim for achievements. Understanding these subtle differences can be crucial, especially when combined with other intersecting words in the grid.
When you encounter such a clue, consider not just direct synonyms, but also the formality or intensity implied. Crosswords love to test your grasp of these nuances, rewarding those who have a rich and varied vocabulary at their disposal.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Beyond the Obvious: For clues like "praise highly," always consider synonyms that are more formal, archaic, or specific in their usage than your immediate go-to words.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: The exact number of letters provided by the grid is your most powerful tool. It immediately narrows down a vast pool of potential answers to just a few possibilities.
- Utilize Intersecting Words: Don't just focus on one clue. The letters you fill in from other answers will provide crucial hints for words like those related to "praise highly," often confirming your suspicions or pointing you in a new direction.
- Context is King: Pay attention to any subtle hints within the clue itself or the puzzle's theme. Is it asking for a verb, a noun, or an adjective? Does it imply a negative or positive connotation?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "praise" and "praise highly"?
While 'praise' can be a general expression of approval or admiration, 'praise highly' implies a much stronger, more enthusiastic, and often more public or formal commendation. Words like 'extol' or 'eulogize' exemplify this intensified level of praise.
Why do crossword puzzles often use less common synonyms for simple words?
Crossword constructors often use less common or more formal synonyms to increase the challenge and test a solver's vocabulary depth. This encourages learning new words and makes the puzzle more engaging.
How can I improve my vocabulary specifically for crossword puzzles?
Regularly solving crosswords is key, as you'll encounter recurring clues and answer patterns. Also, make it a habit to look up words you don't know, use a thesaurus to explore synonyms and antonyms, and read widely across various topics to expand your general knowledge.