shirk crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "shirk" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "shirk crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DUCK: To avoid a duty, responsibility, or question, often by moving quickly out of the way or changing the subject.
LAZE: To spend time in an idle or relaxed way, often implying shirking work.
5 Letters
EVADE: To escape or avoid (someone or something), especially by cleverness or trickery; a classic synonym for shirk.
SLACK: To avoid work or activity; be idle. Often used in the phrase 'slack off'.
AVOID: To keep away from or stop oneself from doing (something). A general term for shirk.
SKIVE: (UK slang) To avoid work or responsibility, often by staying away or leaving early without permission.
7 Letters
NEGLECT: To fail to properly care for something or someone, or to shirk a duty or responsibility.
ABANDON: To give up completely (a course of action, a practice, or a way of thinking). Can imply shirking responsibility or duty.
More About "shirk crossword clue"
"Shirk" is a common verb in crosswords, often appearing when the puzzle maker wants to evoke a sense of avoiding responsibility, duty, or work. It's a versatile word that can lead to various synonyms, depending on the specific nuance of the clue. When you encounter "shirk" or a related clue, think about actions of evasion, idleness, or even desertion. The context provided by other words in the clue is crucial.
Clues for "shirk" might range from straightforward synonyms like "avoid" or "dodge" to more specific phrases such as "fail to do one's part" or "be lazy at work." Understanding the verb's meaning—to deliberately avoid or neglect a duty or responsibility—is key to unlocking the correct answer, especially when a longer or less common synonym is required. Always consider the number of letters needed, as this will quickly narrow down your options from a broad pool of related terms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "shirk," brainstorm as many related words as possible. Sometimes, the clue might even imply the opposite of shirking (e.g., "not shirk" leading to "DO").
- Consider Phrasal Verbs and Slang: "Shirk" can be part of phrases (e.g., "shirk off," "shirk duty"), and some answers might be informal or slang terms like "skive" or "duck."
- Utilize Letter Counts: Always check the number of boxes provided. This is your most powerful tool for eliminating incorrect answers and confirming potential solutions.
- Cross-Reference with Other Clues: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in to help confirm or rule out possibilities for "shirk."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shirk' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'shirk' typically refers to avoiding a duty, responsibility, or work. Clues might use synonyms like 'dodge,' 'evade,' or 'avoid,' often implying laziness or a deliberate refusal to perform a task.
Are there common synonyms for 'shirk' often found in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'shirk' that frequently appear as crossword answers include DUCK, EVADE, DODGE, AVOID, and SLACK. Sometimes, more descriptive phrases or less common synonyms might be used depending on the puzzle's difficulty.
How can I quickly identify a 'shirk' related clue?
Look for words in the clue that indicate avoidance, negligence, idleness, or a failure to meet obligations. Phrases like 'avoid duty,' 'dodge work,' 'be lazy,' or 'neglect responsibility' are strong indicators that the answer is a synonym for 'shirk.'