repulse repel crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "repulse repel" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck and improve your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "repulse repel crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WARD: To turn aside or push back, often used with 'off' as in 'ward off'.
5 Letters
DETER: To discourage or prevent someone from acting, fitting 'repel' in the sense of stopping an advance.
6 Letters
REBUFF: To reject (someone or something) in an abrupt or ungracious manner, a strong synonym for 'repulse'.
More About "repulse repel crossword clue"
The clue "repulse repel" often appears in crosswords seeking a verb that means to push away, drive back, or prevent something from approaching. Both "repulse" and "repel" convey a sense of aversion or pushing against, whether physically, emotionally, or conceptually. Understanding the subtle nuances of these words can be key to unlocking the correct answer, as crossword setters love to play on synonyms and their various contexts.
When encountering such a clue, consider the specific context of the puzzle. Is it looking for a general action of pushing away, or something more specific like a social rejection (repulse) versus a physical or magnetic force (repel)? The answers provided above, WARD, DETER, and REBUFF, cover different facets of this action, offering a range of possibilities depending on the required letter count and the puzzle's theme.
Mastering such versatile clues involves building a strong vocabulary of synonyms related to common actions and emotions. By exploring words that signify keeping something at bay or turning it away, you'll be better equipped to tackle similar challenges in future crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of letters required. This is the most crucial hint and will immediately narrow down your options for "repulse repel" or any other clue.
- Consider Nuances: Think about the subtle differences between 'repulse' (often emotional, like disgust or rejection) and 'repel' (often physical, like pushing away or keeping at a distance). While similar, these nuances can guide you to a more precise answer.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Many words meaning 'to push back' might start with 're-' (like REBUFF, REJECT) or end with '-D' (like WARD, AVOID). Recognizing these patterns can sometimes help when you're stuck.
- Check Cross-References: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use them! Those letters are your best friends in confirming or eliminating potential answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'repulse' and 'repel' in crossword clues?
While often used interchangeably, 'repulse' can imply a strong emotional rejection or disgust (e.g., 'the idea repulsed him'), whereas 'repel' typically suggests physical force or magnetic opposition (e.g., 'magnets repel each other'). In crosswords, they often point to similar 'pushing away' or 'averting' actions.
How can I find synonyms for 'repulse' or 'repel' quickly?
For crossword solving, consider actions of pushing back, warding off, discouraging, or rejecting. Think of words like WARD, DETER, REBUFF, REJECT, AVERT, STAVE, or FOIL. Context in the clue (e.g., 'repel a notion' vs. 'repulse an attack') can help narrow it down.
Why are some crossword answers short and others long for the same clue?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers depending on the specific grid and the number of letters required. A single clue might have various synonyms or related concepts that fit different lengths, offering flexibility to the puzzle setter and solver.