run down crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the clue "run down crossword," designed to help you conquer your current puzzle and expand your crossword vocabulary.
Solutions for "run down crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FIND: To locate after searching for something or someone, often implying a process of tracking.
5 Letters
SLATE: To criticize severely, often in a public manner, aligning with the "criticize" meaning of run down.
6 Letters
LOCATE: To discover the exact place or position of something, similar to "find" but often implying precision.
7 Letters
EXHAUST: To make someone very tired, or to use up all of something, fitting the sense of becoming worn out or depleted.
8 Letters
BELITTLE: To make someone or something seem unimportant or trivial, a common synonym for disparage or criticize.
9 Letters
DISPARAGE: To regard or represent as being of little worth, a direct synonym for "run down" in the context of criticism.
10 Letters
DEBILITATE: To make someone weak and infirm, often due to illness or exhaustion, reflecting the physical 'run down' state.
More About "run down crossword"
The phrase "run down" is a classic example of a multifaceted crossword clue, demanding careful consideration of its various idiomatic meanings. While it commonly implies criticism or disparagement—as in "to run down a reputation"—it equally applies to the act of locating something after a search, such as "running down a suspect." Furthermore, it can describe a state of physical or mechanical exhaustion, as in "feeling run down" or "a battery running down."
Crossword setters love clues like "run down" because they can lead solvers down multiple paths, requiring them to use context, letter count, and intersecting words to pinpoint the precise meaning intended. Recognizing these different facets is key to unlocking not just this clue, but many others that rely on the flexible nature of the English language.
Understanding the nuances of such phrases is a hallmark of advanced crossword solving. It trains your brain to think laterally and consider every angle, transforming a seemingly simple clue into a rewarding intellectual challenge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: For clues like "run down," always think beyond the most obvious interpretation. List out all possible synonyms for each meaning (criticize, locate, exhaust, etc.).
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. If "criticize" is too long, look for shorter synonyms like "slate" or "bash."
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a tricky clue in isolation. Once you have a few intersecting letters from other answers, they will significantly narrow down the possibilities for "run down."
- Think UK vs. US English: Some phrases or spellings might vary. While our site is .co.uk, crosswords often use both. Be aware of potential variations like "criticise" vs. "criticize."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'run down' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'run down' is a versatile clue that can mean several things. It often refers to criticizing or disparaging someone or something, but it can also mean to locate or find, or to become exhausted or worn out. The context of the puzzle and surrounding letters are crucial for determining the correct meaning.
How can I find synonyms for crossword clues like 'run down'?
To find synonyms for clues like 'run down,' consider all possible interpretations of the phrase. Use a thesaurus to explore each meaning (e.g., 'criticize,' 'locate,' 'exhaust'). Also, think about informal or idiomatic uses. Online crossword dictionaries and clue databases can also be very helpful.
Are 'run down' answers always negative?
No, answers for 'run down' are not always negative. While common interpretations include 'criticize' or 'disparage' (negative), it can also mean 'find' or 'locate' (neutral), or 'exhaust' (descriptive, not inherently negative). Always consider the full range of meanings implied by the clue.