sanction crossword clue 7 letters – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "sanction crossword clue 7 letters" by Letter Count
Below are the most common and fitting answers for the crossword clue "sanction crossword clue 7 letters", broken down by their length. Find the one that fits your puzzle!
7 Letters
APPROVE: To give official permission or approval for something. This aligns with the 'sanction' meaning of authorization or endorsement.
LICENSE: Official permission or a permit to do something. This meaning of 'sanction' refers to official authorization, making 'LICENSE' a valid 7-letter answer.
More About "sanction crossword clue 7 letters"
The word "sanction" is a fascinating one in the English language, primarily because it's a contronym – a word with two opposite meanings. As a verb or noun, it can mean "to permit" or "official permission" (e.g., "The council sanctioned the new building project"). Conversely, it can also mean "to penalize" or "a penalty for a forbidden action" (e.g., "The country faced international sanctions for its policies"). This dual nature often makes it a tricky word in crosswords.
When encountering "sanction" in a crossword clue, the key is to look for contextual hints in the rest of the clue or the letters you already have filled in. For a 7-letter answer, the 'permission' sense often points to words like APPROVE or LICENSE, as these directly imply giving authority. Always consider the grid's existing letters to guide you to the correct interpretation and solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check for Contronyms: Words like 'sanction' that have opposite meanings are common crossword traps. Always consider both interpretations until intersecting letters narrow it down.
- Verify Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Double-check your chosen answer matches the exact length required, as in "sanction crossword clue 7 letters".
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters you fill in from other clues are invaluable. They will either confirm your answer or tell you it's incorrect, especially useful when multiple answers fit the definition.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think broadly about words related to the clue, including synonyms for the primary meaning and sometimes even antonyms if the clue suggests a reversal or opposite.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a contronym in crosswords?
A contronym (or auto-antonym) is a word that has two meanings that are opposite to each other. "Sanction" is a classic example, meaning both "to permit" and "to punish." These words are often used in crosswords to challenge solvers, requiring them to discern the intended meaning from context.
Why are some crossword clues ambiguous?
Crossword constructors often use ambiguity to make puzzles more challenging and engaging. Clues can be puns, double meanings, or rely on specific interpretations of a word. The goal is to provide enough information for a single correct answer, but not make it immediately obvious, encouraging creative thinking.
How important is the letter count in crosswords?
The letter count is absolutely fundamental. It's the primary constraint for any answer. If a clue specifies '7 letters', only a 7-letter word will fit. Always ensure your proposed answer perfectly matches the required length, as this is the first rule of crossword solving.