restraints crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "restraints crossword clue" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "restraints crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TIES: Simple fastenings or obligations that restrain.
5 Letters
BONDS: Ties or commitments that limit freedom, or physical bindings.
CURBS: Controls or checks, often used to restrain something from growing or developing.
6 Letters
CHAINS: Linked metal rings used for confinement or securing.
LIMITS: Boundaries that restrict action or movement.
STRAPS: Strips of material used to hold things in place or restrict movement.
7 Letters
FETTERS: Shackles, typically for the ankles or feet, used to restrict movement.
8 Letters
SHACKLES: A pair of fetters or handcuffs, used to fasten a prisoner.
9 Letters
HANDCUFFS: A pair of lockable rings for securing a person's wrists.
More About "restraints crossword clue"
The crossword clue "restraints" is a versatile one that can lead to a variety of answers, reflecting both literal and figurative meanings. Physically, restraints refer to devices like handcuffs, chains, or ropes used to restrict movement. These are often the first things that come to mind, leading to answers such as HANDCUFFS, CHAINS, or SHACKLES, depending on the letter count and the specific context of the puzzle.
However, "restraints" can also refer to non-physical limitations. This includes concepts like rules, regulations, controls, or even self-imposed limitations. In a crossword puzzle, this broader interpretation might lead to answers like LIMITS, CURBS, or BONDS (in the sense of obligations or ties). A good crossword solver knows to consider both the tangible and abstract meanings of a clue to find the correct fit.
Understanding the precise nuance of the clue, whether it implies physical confinement, a legal restriction, or a societal limitation, is key. Always keep an eye on intersecting letters, as they are crucial for confirming your choice and unlocking the rest of the puzzle efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Context: For a clue like 'restraints,' think beyond physical limitations. Words like 'limits,' 'controls,' or 'curbs' can also be valid answers, depending on the puzzle's theme and the overall tone of the clues.
- Check Letter Count First: Always look at the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options from a broad term like 'restraints' to specific words like 'BONDS' (5 letters) or 'HANDCUFFS' (9 letters), making your search much more efficient.
- Look for Wordplay and Double Meanings: Some clues involving 'restraints' might hint at something like 'BRAKES' for a car, or 'TIES' for clothing or obligations. Be open to less literal interpretations and consider if the clue is playing on a double meaning.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck on 'restraints,' fill in surrounding words first. The intersecting letters from other answers will provide crucial hints and often reveal missing letters for the 'restraints' answer, guiding you to the correct solution.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common types of "restraints" in crosswords?
Common types include physical devices like HANDCUFFS, CHAINS, or SHACKLES, but also more abstract concepts like LIMITS, CURBS, or even social BONDS.
How do I choose between similar answers like FETTERS and SHACKLES?
The letter count is key. FETTERS is 7 letters, while SHACKLES is 8. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue or any intersecting letters to confirm the correct word.
Can "restraints" refer to something other than physical objects?
Absolutely! In crosswords, 'restraints' can often refer to conceptual limitations, rules, or controls, such as 'BUDGETARY' restraints or 'SOCIAL' restraints, requiring a broader interpretation of the word beyond just physical confinement.