ruin crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "ruin crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. We've got you covered for all word lengths and meanings.
Solutions for "ruin crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To spoil or disfigure something, diminishing its perfection.
4 Letters
UNDO: To reverse or negate the effect of something; to bring to naught.
5 Letters
SPOIL: To damage or impair the quality of something; to make it unfit for use.
WRECK: To destroy or severely damage something, often causing it to break apart.
6 Letters
DAMAGE: Physical harm caused to something in such a way as to impair its value, usefulness, or normal function.
RAVAGE: To cause severe and extensive damage to something.
7 Letters
DESTROY: To put an end to the existence of something by damaging or attacking it.
8 Letters
BANKRUPT: To cause someone or something to be completely without money or resources, leading to financial ruin.
More About "ruin crossword clue"
The term "ruin" is a versatile word in the English language and, consequently, in crossword puzzles. It can be used as a verb, meaning to destroy or severely damage something, or as a noun, referring to the remains of something that has been destroyed or decayed, such as an old building or city. This dual nature often provides setters with opportunities for clever clues that can throw off solvers if they don't consider both possibilities.
When "ruin" appears in a crossword clue, consider whether the setter is looking for an action (like 'spoil' or 'wreck') or a physical location or object (like 'remains' or a specific historical site known for its ruins). The surrounding words in the clue, as well as the context of the puzzle itself (e.g., a puzzle theme involving ancient history), can be crucial hints. Pay attention to the part of speech implied by the clue to narrow down the options effectively.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always start by noting the number of letters required. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and focuses your search on answers like 'MAR' for three letters or 'DESTROY' for seven.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "ruin," brainstorm related words. Is there an opposite idea implied? Sometimes the setter uses a less obvious synonym to make the clue harder.
- Check for Noun vs. Verb: Determine if "ruin" is used as a verb (an action) or a noun (a thing or place). This distinction is vital for clues that can have multiple interpretations. For example, "What a ruin" suggests a noun, while "Ruin a plan" suggests a verb.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These letters are your best friends in confirming or rejecting a potential answer. If 'D' is the third letter, 'UNDO' works, but 'MAR' does not.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'ruin' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'ruin' in crossword puzzles include 'mar', 'spoil', 'wreck', 'undo', 'damage', 'destroy', 'ravage', and 'demolish'. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting words.
How does context influence the 'ruin' answer in a crossword?
The context of the clue and the puzzle's theme significantly influence the answer. For example, 'ruin' as a noun might refer to an 'old structure' (e.g., 'ABBEY'), while as a verb, it could mean 'damage' or 'destroy'. Always consider surrounding clues and the overall puzzle style.
Can 'ruin' refer to a place in crosswords?
Yes, 'ruin' can often refer to a historical or abandoned structure, such as 'CASTLE', 'FORT', or more generally, 'REMAINS' if the clue hints at a relic or decayed building. If the clue specifies 'ancient ruin', answers like 'ACROPOLIS' or 'POMPEII' might be relevant depending on the length.