reduce the length of crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "reduce the length of crossword clue", categorized by their letter count. We've got you covered for every puzzle!
Solutions for "reduce the length of crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TRIM: To cut off the unwanted parts of something, effectively reducing its length or tidying it up.
7 Letters
SHORTEN: To make or become shorter in length, duration, or extent. A direct synonym for the clue.
CURTAIL: To reduce in extent or quantity; impose a restriction on. Often used when talking about reducing a speech, budget, or activity's length.
10 Letters
ABBREVIATE: To shorten (a word, phrase, or text) to an abbreviation. Directly relates to reducing the written length of something.
More About "reduce the length of crossword clue"
The concept of "reducing length" is common in many aspects of life, from editing text and tailoring clothes to optimizing processes for efficiency. In language, this can manifest as making words shorter, summarizing long speeches, or using acronyms and abbreviations.
Crossword setters love clues that evoke everyday actions or concepts with multiple synonyms, and "reduce the length of" is a prime example. Recognizing these synonyms and understanding their nuances can unlock many puzzles. Whether it's to trim a sentence, shorten a journey, or curtail an argument, the underlying meaning remains the same: making something briefer or smaller.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms: Always brainstorm a wide range of synonyms for the key words in the clue. For "reduce the length," think of "cut," "trim," "clip," "shorten," "condense," "curtail," "abbreviate," etc.
- Check Letter Count First: Before settling on an answer, always verify if its letter count matches the grid. This is your quickest filter and often eliminates many incorrect possibilities.
- Look for Wordplay: Sometimes, "reduce the length" might imply a wordplay element, such as removing letters from a longer word (e.g., 'headless' or 'tail-off'). Pay attention to any unusual phrasing in the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of clues mean 'shorten' in crosswords?
Clues related to 'shortening' can appear in many forms, such as 'cut short,' 'clip,' 'trim,' 'condense,' 'make brief,' or 'edit.' They often point to words that mean to reduce in size, duration, or extent.
How important is letter count when solving clues like this?
The exact letter count is paramount in crossword solving. It immediately narrows down potential answers, helping you fit the word into the grid and verify your solution against intersecting words. Always check the number of boxes available.
Are there common wordplay techniques for 'reducing length' in clues?
Yes, beyond direct synonyms, 'reducing length' can hint at abbreviations (e.g., 'Doctor reduced' for DR.), words with letters removed ('behead' or 'curtail' wordplay), or even concepts like condensation or summary in the clue's context.