sanctioned crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "sanctioned" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "sanctioned crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
ALLOWED: Given official permission to do something.
DECREED: Ordered by an official ruling.
ENACTED: Made into law or put into action, often formally or officially.
8 Letters
APPROVED: Officially agreed to or accepted as satisfactory.
LICENSED: Granted a license, authorizing the use of something or to do a specific activity.
RATIFIED: Signed or given formal consent to (a treaty, contract, or agreement), making it officially valid.
More About "sanctioned crossword clue"
"Sanctioned" is a fascinating word in the English language because it has two almost opposite meanings, which crossword setters love to exploit. On one hand, it means to give official permission or approval for something. For instance, a project might be "sanctioned" by the board. This is the meaning most often intended when you see the clue by itself in a crossword puzzle.
However, "sanctioned" can also refer to imposing a penalty or a coercive measure. For example, a country might be "sanctioned" for violating international law. While less common in a direct clue like "sanctioned," it's vital to be aware of this dual nature, especially if the clue includes qualifiers or refers to a negative outcome. Always consider the context of the puzzle and other intersecting words.
Understanding these nuances is key to solving the clue correctly. The answers provided above, such as ALLOWED, APPROVED, and LICENSED, fall under the "permitted" category, which is the primary interpretation for a straightforward "sanctioned" clue. However, being mindful of its other meaning can save you from a common crossword trap!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- **Check the Letter Count First:** Always count the blank spaces in your grid immediately. This eliminates many possibilities and narrows down your search significantly.
- **Consider the Tense:** If the clue is "sanctioned," the answer will likely be a past participle or an adjective in the past tense (ending in -ED), like many of our solutions. Pay attention to verbs and their forms.
- **Look for Intersecting Letters:** Use any letters you've already filled in from other clues. These are crucial hints that can confirm or rule out potential answers for "sanctioned."
- **Think of Synonyms and Antonyms:** For clues like "sanctioned," brainstorm a wide range of synonyms. Also, consider if the puzzle's theme or other clues suggest an antonym might be subtly implied.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right "sanctioned" synonym in a crossword?
Look at the number of letters required and the surrounding clues. 'Sanctioned' often implies 'officially approved' or 'permitted.' Consider common synonyms like ALLOWED, APPROVED, PERMITTED, or LICENSED. Also, think about whether the clue suggests a past-tense action (e.g., ENACTED, DECREED).
What's the difference between 'sanctioned' and 'sanctioned against' in crosswords?
This is crucial! 'Sanctioned' alone typically means 'approved' or 'permitted.' However, if the clue includes 'sanctioned against' or implies a negative context (e.g., 'punished,' 'penalized'), then 'sanctioned' takes on its other meaning – to impose a penalty or official permission to punish. Always read the full clue carefully to determine the intended meaning.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for 'sanctioned' answers?
While not universally applicable, words related to 'sanctioned' often end in -ED (past participle, e.g., ALLOWED, APPROVED, DECREED, ENACTED, LICENSED, RATIFIED), indicating a completed action of approval. Keep an eye out for these endings when filling in the grid.