reduce to ashes crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. On this page, you'll find all possible answers and detailed explanations for the clue "reduce to ashes," helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "reduce to ashes crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BURN: To destroy or damage by fire.
7 Letters
CREMATE: To reduce (a dead body) to ashes by burning.
CONSUME: To destroy completely, as by fire.
8 Letters
VAPORIZE: To convert or be converted into vapor; often used to imply complete destruction.
10 Letters
INCINERATE: To destroy (something, especially waste material) by burning.
More About "reduce to ashes crossword clue"
The clue "reduce to ashes" is a classic in crosswords, directly pointing to the process of complete destruction through fire. This can refer to anything from a simple act of burning wood to the more formal process of cremation or incineration. Understanding the various terms associated with fire and destruction is key to solving such clues.
In a broader sense, this clue can sometimes lean towards metaphorical destruction, implying a complete obliteration of something, like plans or hopes. However, in most crossword puzzles, the literal interpretation related to fire and the resulting ash is the intended meaning. Paying attention to the context of the puzzle and the number of letters will guide you to the correct answer among the possible synonyms.
Answers like BURN are concise and common, while CREMATE and INCINERATE are more specific and longer, indicating a particular type of burning process. VAPORIZE, while not strictly "to ashes," implies such complete destruction that no solid remains, fitting the spirit of the clue in some contexts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Match Letter Count Precisely: Always start by checking the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial filter.
- Consider All Synonyms: Think broadly about words related to the clue. For "reduce to ashes," consider not just direct synonyms of burning, but also words implying complete destruction or the end result (ash).
- Look for Nuance: Does the clue imply a formal process (like 'cremation') or a general act ('burning')? Subtle differences in wording can point to a specific answer.
- Cross-Reference: If you have intersecting clues, use the letters you've already filled in from other answers to help narrow down possibilities for "reduce to ashes."
- Utilize Our Site: If you're stuck, use our search function for the clue. We provide multiple answers and explanations to help you understand the context and improve your solving skills. For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'reduce to ashes' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'reduce to ashes' typically refers to the complete destruction of something by fire, leaving behind only ash or residue. It usually seeks a verb describing this action.
Are there common synonyms for 'reduce to ashes' used in crosswords?
Yes, common answers include direct verbs like BURN, CREMATE, or INCINERATE. Sometimes, less common but related terms such as CHAR or CONSUME (when referring to fire) might also appear depending on the clue's specific wording and letter count.
How can I differentiate between similar answers for 'reduce to ashes'?
The primary way to differentiate is by the number of letters required for the answer. Also, consider the specific nuances: 'CREMATE' implies a formal, often human, process, while 'INCINERATE' suggests industrial destruction. 'BURN' is more general. Context from other clues in the puzzle can sometimes help narrow it down.