ruined crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "ruined crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "ruined crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BROKE: Reduced to a state of ruin or destruction; also without money, hinting at financial ruin.
6 Letters
MARRED: Impaired the appearance or quality of; disfigured. Often used for less severe forms of ruin.
FAILED: Unsuccessful in achieving an aim; deteriorated. Can imply plans or efforts that came to nothing.
GUTTED: Completely destroyed or emptied, often by fire. Implies total devastation, like a gutted building.
7 Letters
SPOILED: Made ineffective, worthless, or unenjoyable, often referring to food, children, or plans being ruined.
WRECKED: Severely damaged or destroyed, implying total loss or incapacitation, similar to a vehicle wreck.
DAMAGED: Physically harmed or impaired, making something less functional or valuable. A general term for harm.
More About "ruined crossword clue"
The clue "ruined" in crosswords is a versatile one, often requiring solvers to consider various shades of meaning. From physical destruction to financial collapse, or even the spoiling of plans or reputations, the context provided by surrounding clues and the letter count are crucial for pinpointing the correct answer. Common pitfalls include focusing too narrowly on just one definition of "ruined" when a more abstract or figurative meaning is intended.
Crossword setters love to play on words, so "ruined" might sometimes appear in a cryptic clue, suggesting an anagram or a hidden word. For instance, a clue like "Diner's menu ruined (7)" might lead to an anagram of "Diner's" or a related word, rather than a direct synonym. Always be prepared to think laterally and consider how the clue might be hinting at wordplay.
Understanding the synonyms and antonyms of "ruined" in different contexts can also provide a significant advantage. Words like "intact," "restored," or "preserved" are opposites that might appear as related clues, helping to confirm your answer for "ruined." Building a strong vocabulary around these concepts will significantly enhance your solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the exact number of letters in the answer slot. This immediately filters out many possibilities for "ruined."
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: Think beyond just physical destruction. "Ruined" can also mean financially broke, morally corrupt, or plans gone awry.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters you fill in from other clues are your best friends. They'll quickly confirm or refute a potential answer for "ruined."
- Think About Wordplay: If it's a cryptic crossword, "ruined" might be part of an anagram, a reversal, or a sound-alike clue. Don't limit yourself to direct definitions.
- Use a Crossword Solver (Wisely): If you're truly stuck, use a tool like ours, but try to understand why an answer fits. This builds your own puzzle-solving skills.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ruined' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'ruined' often refers to something that is destroyed, damaged, spoiled, or made ineffective. It can also imply financial destitution or a state of disrepair. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and any intersecting clues.
Are there common synonyms for 'ruined' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms frequently used as answers for 'ruined' include BROKE, MARRED, FAILED, GUTTED, SPOILED, WRECKED, and DAMAGED. Clues can also hint at phrases like 'come to naught' or 'gone to seed'.
How can I figure out the letter count for 'ruined' answers?
The letter count for 'ruined' answers will be indicated by the grid in your crossword puzzle. Always check the number of empty squares for the specific answer you are trying to fill in. This is the most crucial piece of information for narrowing down possibilities.