rips crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "rips" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, explanations, and helpful tips to conquer your puzzle.
Solutions for "rips crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TEARS: To pull apart quickly or violently; also, to move or act with great speed or force.
RENDS: An older term for tearing something violently apart, often used in literature or for profound emotional distress.
6 Letters
SHREDS: To tear or cut into small pieces; often used when something is completely ruined.
More About "rips crossword clue"
Clues involving "rips" can be surprisingly versatile in crosswords, leading to various answers depending on the context. Beyond the literal act of tearing, "rips" can imply speed (as in "rips along the road"), criticism (as in "rips into someone"), or even a type of fabric tear. Crossword setters love to play on these multiple meanings, requiring solvers to think broadly about synonyms and related concepts.
The challenge with "rips" often lies in identifying the specific nuance the setter intends. Is it a gentle tear, a violent separation, or a metaphorical "rip" like a critique? By considering the surrounding words in the clue and the number of letters available, you can pinpoint the exact solution needed to advance your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Homographs: For words like "rips," think of all possible synonyms (tears, shreds, rends, slits) and even homographs if the clue hints at them (e.g., a "rip" in fabric vs. someone who "rips" through a task quickly).
- Check for Contextual Clues: Look for other words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning. "Rips into pieces" points to one set of answers, while "rips along" points to another, implying speed.
- Examine Letter Counts: If you have some letters already filled in from intersecting words, use the remaining length to guide your search for words that precisely fit the "rips" definition. This is often the most effective strategy for tricky clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for "rips" in crossword puzzles?
Common synonyms for "rips" include TEARS, SHREDS, RENDS, SLITS, CLEAVES, or even verbs suggesting forceful, quick movement like ZOOMS or SPEEDS, depending on the nuance of the clue.
How do I distinguish between literal and figurative meanings of "rips" in a clue?
Pay close attention to surrounding words. Phrases like "rips apart," "rips to shreds," or "rips open" usually indicate a literal tearing. Figurative uses might include "rips into a speech" (criticizes) or "rips through the pages" (reads quickly). Cryptic clues might use wordplay on the sound of "rips" or parts of the word.
Why do crosswords often use older or less common words like "RENDS" for "rips"?
Crossword setters frequently use less common or archaic synonyms to increase the challenge and expand the vocabulary required. "RENDS" is a classic example of a word with a precise meaning ("to tear violently") that fits certain letter counts and adds a layer of difficulty.