replicate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "replicate", helping you complete your puzzle with ease. We've compiled answers across various word lengths to ensure you find the perfect fit.
Solutions for "replicate crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
COPY: To make an identical or very similar version of something. A common, straightforward answer for 'replicate'.
ECHO: To repeat or reflect a sound or idea. Can be used in a figurative sense to mean 'replicate' an action or sentiment.
5 Letters
MIMIC: To imitate (someone or something), especially in order to entertain or ridicule. Often implies replicating behavior.
CLONE: To create an identical copy of an organism or cell. More specifically replicates genetic material.
6 Letters
REPEAT: To do (something) again or more than once. The most direct form of replication in action.
7 Letters
EMULATE: To match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation. Implies replicating success or a method.
9 Letters
DUPLICATE: To make an exact copy of something. Very close in meaning to 'replicate', often used interchangeably.
More About "replicate crossword clue"
The clue "replicate" in crosswords is a versatile one, often leading to various synonyms depending on the context and the number of letters. At its core, 'replicate' means to make an exact copy or to reproduce something. This can range from biological replication, as in 'CLONE', to simply doing something again, as in 'REPEAT'. The key to solving this type of clue is to consider the nuance of the synonym and how it might fit the given word length.
Crossword setters love using words like 'replicate' because they have multiple shades of meaning. For instance, 'MIMIC' implies replicating actions or expressions, often humorously, while 'EMULATE' suggests replicating a desirable quality or achievement. Understanding these subtle differences can help you differentiate between potential answers when you have overlapping letter counts, such as between 'MIMIC' and 'CLONE', both 5 letters.
Always consider the other crossing words in your puzzle. They will provide vital letter constraints that narrow down the possibilities. If you have an 'O' as the second letter, 'COPY' becomes a stronger candidate than 'MIMIC', for example. Thinking about the common synonyms and their typical crossword uses will greatly improve your solving speed for clues like 'replicate'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all synonyms: For a clue like "replicate," don't just think of the most common answer. Brainstorm a range of synonyms from simple (COPY, REPEAT) to more specific (CLONE, DUPLICATE, EMULATE, MIMIC) to match the required letter count.
- Utilize crossing letters: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is using the letters from intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can significantly reduce the pool of possible answers for "replicate."
- Think about parts of speech: Is the clue a verb (to replicate), a noun (a replicate), or an adjective (replicate data)? While "replicate" is typically a verb, its synonyms might vary in common usage, guiding your choice.
- Look for context clues: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can hint at the type of "replicate" intended. Is it a science-themed puzzle? Then CLONE might be more likely.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'replicate' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'replicate' generally means to make an exact copy, duplicate, or repeat something. It often points to synonyms like COPY, DUPLICATE, MIMIC, CLONE, or REPEAT, depending on the number of letters required.
How can I find answers for 'replicate' if I only have a few letters?
If you have some letters, try thinking of common prefixes or suffixes related to repetition, like 're-'. Consider answers of varying lengths. For instance, 'REPLICATE' itself is 9 letters. If you have an 'O' and 4 letters, 'COPY' or 'ECHO' might fit. If you have an 'I' and 5 letters, 'MIMIC' or 'CLONE' could be possibilities.
Are there common tricky clues for 'replicate'?
Tricky clues for 'replicate' often use more abstract or less common synonyms. For example, a clue might be 'Echo an action' (ECHO) or 'Mirror a performance' (MIMIC/COPY). Pay attention to the part of speech and any subtle nuances in the clue's wording.