purloin crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "purloin crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "purloin crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LIFT: To take something unlawfully, often implies stealth or ease, as in "to lift a wallet."
5 Letters
STEAL: The most direct and common synonym for purloin, meaning to take property without permission.
6 Letters
PILFER: To steal things of little value, typically in small quantities, suggesting a casual act of theft.
More About "purloin crossword clue"
"Purloin" is a classic crossword clue word that often puzzles solvers due to its slightly formal or less common usage compared to its simpler synonyms. Derived from Old French, it means to steal or to appropriate something without permission. While it broadly covers any act of theft, it frequently carries a connotation of stealth or cunning rather than overt force.
In crosswords, understanding the nuances of synonyms is key. For "purloin," setters might be looking for a short, direct synonym like STEAL, a more informal term like LIFT, or a word that implies small-scale theft, such as PILFER. The length of the answer and any intersecting letters are your primary guides, but knowing these common associations can speed up your solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for words like "purloin" that have multiple synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Words: The letters from already solved cross-clues are your best friends. They provide crucial hints and often eliminate incorrect answers.
- Consider Nuance and Context: While "purloin" generally means to steal, sometimes the clue might add an extra hint, like "(small items)" or "(quickly)," which could point to a more specific synonym like PILFER or NICK.
- Think of Homophones and Puns: Crossword setters love wordplay. While less likely for a direct definition like "purloin," always be aware of the potential for clever twists if the answer isn't immediately apparent.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'purloin' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'purloin' means to steal, pilfer, or appropriate something without permission. It often hints at words like STEAL, LIFT, NICK, or PILFER.
Why are there multiple answers for 'purloin crossword clue'?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the number of letters required and the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends. Different synonyms fit different puzzle grids, providing flexibility for solvers and setters.
How can I identify the correct answer for 'purloin' in my puzzle?
To find the right answer, first, count the blank spaces to determine the required letter length. Then, check for any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Sometimes, the context of the clue or the specific crossword publication might also provide subtle hints. For example, 'purloin (a small amount)' might lean more towards PILFER or NICK.