shut out crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for the solution to the crossword clue "shut out", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct word for your puzzle.
Solutions for "shut out crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DENY: To refuse to admit or grant; to exclude or keep out from a right or privilege.
5 Letters
BLANK: In sports, to prevent an opponent from scoring any points, thereby 'shutting them out'.
6 Letters
REJECT: To dismiss or refuse to consider; to refuse to accept something or someone, effectively 'shutting them out'.
7 Letters
EXCLUDE: To prevent from entering or participating; to keep someone or something out.
More About "shut out crossword clue"
"Shut out" is a versatile phrase that often appears in crosswords, carrying meanings from sports terminology to general concepts of exclusion. In sports, especially baseball or hockey, it means a team prevents the opposing team from scoring any points or goals. This literal sense makes words like BLANK or DEFEAT (though not listed as a primary answer here) viable solutions depending on the clue's nuance.
Beyond sports, "shut out" can refer to a more general act of exclusion or refusal. If you're 'shut out' of a conversation, you're excluded. If a proposal is 'shut out', it's rejected. This broader interpretation allows for answers like DENY, REJECT, or EXCLUDE, which capture the essence of being barred or not allowed. Understanding the context of the specific crossword puzzle—whether it's a sports-themed clue or a more general one—is key to choosing the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the blank space to the potential answers. This is your most immediate filter.
- Consider Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from other clues that cross into your 'shut out' solution, use them to narrow down the options. Even one letter can eliminate many possibilities.
- Think About Context: Does the puzzle have a theme? Are other clues sports-related, or do they lean towards more general vocabulary? The overall tone of the puzzle can provide subtle hints about the intended meaning of 'shut out'.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Beyond the literal 'shut out', think of words that convey similar actions or outcomes: block, bar, prevent, disallow, eliminate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shut out' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'shut out' commonly refers to preventing entry or participation, often in sports (like preventing a team from scoring), or generally excluding something or someone.
Are there different meanings of 'shut out' that apply to crosswords?
Yes, 'shut out' can imply exclusion (e.g., 'shut out of a group'), rejection (e.g., 'shut out a proposal'), or a sports-specific meaning of preventing an opponent from scoring any points.
How can I tell which 'shut out' answer is correct for my puzzle?
Check the letter count of the blank space in your puzzle. Also, consider any intersecting letters you already have, as they will narrow down the possibilities significantly. The context of other clues in the puzzle can also provide hints.