refrains from killing or harming crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate guide to solving even the trickiest crossword puzzles. On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "refrains from killing or harming crossword clue," broken down by letter count for quick and easy reference.
Solutions for "refrains from killing or harming crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SPARE: To refrain from harming, injuring, or killing someone or something, often out of mercy or compassion.
8 Letters
ABSTAINS: To deliberately and voluntarily refrain from doing something, including acts of violence or harm.
FORBEARS: To politely or patiently restrain an impulse to do something; to refrain from, especially from an action that would cause harm or annoyance.
More About "refrains from killing or harming crossword clue"
The clue "refrains from killing or harming" delves into concepts of non-aggression, mercy, and ethical restraint. In crosswords, such clues often point to words that signify a deliberate choice to avoid causing injury, pain, or death. These words can come from various contexts, including moral philosophy, legal terms, or general human interaction, but they consistently convey a sense of holding back from potential harm.
Understanding the nuances of these words can significantly aid in solving related puzzles. For instance, 'SPARE' directly implies an act of mercy, while 'ABSTAINS' suggests a broader pattern of refraining, and 'FORBEARS' hints at patience and self-control. The specific context of the puzzle, including other intersecting words, will often guide you to the precise answer. This clue is a good example of how crosswords test not just vocabulary, but also an understanding of synonyms and contextual meaning, encouraging solvers to think deeply about language.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For clues like "refrains from killing or harming," think about words that mean the opposite (e.g., attacks, injures) and then their antonyms. Also, consider direct synonyms for "refrains" in different contexts.
- Check letter count carefully: Always double-check the number of letters in the answer you're considering. Many clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the required length. For example, "SPARE" (5 letters) and "ABSTAINS" (8 letters) are both possibilities for this clue.
- Use crossing letters: The most crucial tip! Don't guess. Wait until you have one or two crossing letters from other clues. These letters will often narrow down the possibilities to a single correct answer, especially for trickier clues, by eliminating words that don't fit the pattern.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'refrains from killing or harming'?
While several answers can fit, 'SPARE' is a very common and direct answer to this clue, particularly when referring to an act of mercy or non-harm. 'ABSTAINS' and 'FORBEARS' are also strong possibilities depending on the letter count.
How does the clue 'refrains from killing or harming' relate to non-violence?
This clue directly relates to concepts of non-violence, pacifism, or showing mercy. Answers often reflect an active choice to avoid inflicting damage or pain, aligning with principles of ethical conduct and compassion in human interactions.
Are there other phrases with similar meanings in crosswords?
Yes, clues such as 'shows mercy,' 'holds back,' 'doesn't hurt,' 'acts kindly towards,' or 'chooses peace' can lead to similar answers. Always consider the number of letters required and any crossing letters you already have to narrow down the options.