put off crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "put off", designed to help you quickly complete your puzzle. We've compiled answers across various word lengths, along with detailed insights to improve your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "put off crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DEFER: To postpone or delay an action until a later time.
DELAY: To cause to be slow or late in movement or progress.
DETER: To discourage someone from doing something by instilling doubt or fear.
STALL: To delay or put off action or decision.
7 Letters
PROLONG: To extend the duration of something.
SUSPEND: To temporarily stop or set aside an activity, operation, or decision.
8 Letters
POSTPONE: To arrange for an event or action to take place at a later time.
13 Letters
PROCRASTINATE: To delay or postpone action; put off doing something.
More About "put off crossword clue"
"Put off" is a versatile phrase that often appears in crossword puzzles, typically hinting at two distinct actions: delaying something or discouraging someone. Recognizing which meaning the clue intends is key to finding the correct answer. Common synonyms for delaying include 'defer', 'postpone', and 'delay' itself, while 'deter' is frequently used for discouraging. The context of the puzzle and the number of letters will guide you to the precise solution.
Crossword setters love to play with these dual meanings. A clue like "Put off by the smell" clearly points to the discouraging sense, whereas "Put off the meeting" points to a postponement. By considering the broader sentence structure implied by the clue, solvers can quickly narrow down the possibilities. Our answers above cover both interpretations, ensuring you have the right word for any grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: Always think about the multiple interpretations of a phrase. "Put off" is a prime example with its 'delay' and 'deter' senses.
- Count your letters: The number of letters in the answer is your most important guide. Use it to eliminate words that don't fit and focus on those that do.
- Look for nearby clues: Sometimes, an answer to an intersecting clue can reveal a letter, significantly simplifying your search for the "put off" solution.
- Think about synonyms: If a direct answer doesn't come to mind, brainstorm synonyms for "put off" (like delay, hinder, discourage, defer, postpone) and check their letter counts.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'put off' in crosswords?
The clue 'put off' commonly refers to two main meanings: to postpone or delay something (e.g., DEFER, DELAY, POSTPONE) or to deter/discourage someone from an action (e.g., DETER). The specific puzzle context will often help you discern which meaning is intended.
How can I distinguish between 'put off' as in delay and 'put off' as in discourage?
Pay close attention to the number of letters required and any surrounding words in the clue. If the clue implies a subject experiencing reluctance ('made reluctant'), it leans towards discourage. If it implies rescheduling or delaying an event, it's likely a deferment. For example, 'Put off doing chores' suggests procrastination/delay, while 'Put off by the smell' suggests discouragement.
Are there typical letter counts for 'put off' answers?
Yes, 'put off' answers frequently appear in shorter lengths like 5 letters (DEFER, DELAY, DETER, STALL). Longer answers like POSTPONE (8 letters), PROLONG (7 letters), SUSPEND (7 letters), or even PROCRASTINATE (13 letters) are also common depending on the complexity of the puzzle. Always check the available spaces in your grid.