preoccupy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "preoccupy" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "preoccupy crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
ABSORB: To take up the whole attention or time of someone.
ENGAGE: To occupy or attract someone's interest or attention.
7 Letters
ENGROSS: To completely occupy the mind or attention of someone.
8 Letters
DISTRACT: To draw away the mind or attention of someone from something.
More About "preoccupy crossword clue"
"Preoccupy" as a crossword clue often points towards words that denote a state of deep mental engagement or, conversely, a state of being mentally consumed by something to the exclusion of other thoughts. It can sometimes lean into negative connotations, suggesting a persistent worry or obsession that fills one's mind. The nuance of the word is key, and setters often use it to test a solver's vocabulary around synonyms for 'to absorb fully' or 'to take up one's thoughts'.
When encountering this clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a standard daily cryptic, or perhaps a more themed puzzle? The length of the answer is the most direct hint, but thinking about various synonyms and their subtle differences can help pinpoint the exact word the setter intended. For instance, while 'absorb' and 'engross' are very similar, one might fit the letter count or intersecting letters better.
Sometimes, "preoccupy" can also imply a prior state of occupying something, but in most cases, especially in modern crosswords, it refers to the mental state. Our curated list aims to cover the most frequent and accurate solutions for this common yet sometimes tricky clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "preoccupy," consider both positive (e.g., engrossed in a book) and negative (e.g., worried by a problem) interpretations, as the answer could fall on either side.
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the given letter count as your primary filter. It immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from crossing words, use them to confirm or eliminate potential answers for "preoccupy." This is often the most effective way to solve stubborn clues.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm a wide range of synonyms for "preoccupy." Sometimes, the answer might be a less obvious synonym or even an antonym if the clue implies a twist.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'preoccupy' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'preoccupy' often clues words related to being engrossed, absorbed, or having one's mind constantly on something, sometimes to the exclusion of other thoughts. It can also imply a distraction or something that constantly bothers one's thoughts.
Are there common synonyms for 'preoccupy' used as crossword answers?
Yes, common synonyms that appear as answers include ENGROSS, ABSORB, ENGAGE, DISTRACT, or even terms like BOTHER or HAUNT, depending on the specific nuance the setter is going for. Always consider the number of letters required.
How can I find answers when a clue is 'preoccupy'?
Start by considering the letter count provided in the puzzle. Think of words that mean to 'fill one's mind' or 'take up attention'. Use any already revealed letters from intersecting words to help narrow down possibilities, such as 'E_G_O_S' for ENGROSS or 'A_S_R_B' for ABSORB.