sidestep crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "sidestep," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "sidestep crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DUCK: To quickly lower one's head or body to avoid a blow or missile; to evade by sudden movement.
5 Letters
AVOID: To keep away from or stop oneself from doing something; to refrain from.
DODGE: To avoid (someone or something) by a sudden quick movement; to escape or elude.
EVADE: To escape or avoid (someone or something), especially by cleverness or trickery; to elude.
More About "sidestep crossword clue"
"Sidestep" is a versatile word in the English language, and its presence in crossword puzzles reflects this adaptability. Literally, it means to step to the side to avoid something, a quick, agile movement. Figuratively, it implies avoiding a topic, responsibility, or confrontation without directly confronting it. This dual meaning makes it a favorite among crossword setters, allowing for clues that can range from physical actions to abstract strategies.
When "sidestep" appears as a clue, solvers should consider both its literal and metaphorical interpretations. Is the clue hinting at a physical evasion, like a boxer dodging a punch, or is it referring to someone avoiding a difficult question or duty? The surrounding words in the clue, as well as the length of the answer, are crucial in deciphering which specific synonym the puzzle designer intended. For instance, a clue might be "Quickly sidestep" for DUCK, or "Sidestep responsibility" for EVADE.
Understanding these nuances is key to mastering clues like "sidestep." Crossword puzzles often test your vocabulary's depth and your ability to think synonymously across different contexts. By recognizing the various ways "sidestep" can be interpreted, you'll be better equipped to tackle similar clues in future puzzles, improving your solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "sidestep," determine if it implies a physical action (like DUCK or DODGE) or a metaphorical avoidance (like AVOID or EVADE). This can significantly narrow down your options.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in your potential answer to the blank spaces provided. This is the quickest way to eliminate many incorrect possibilities.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues. Even one correct letter can be the key to unlocking a challenging word.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Puzzles often reuse certain synonyms for common actions. Building a mental library of these, such as "duck," "dodge," "avoid," and "evade" for "sidestep," will speed up your solving process.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sidestep' mean in a crossword context?
'Sidestep' in a crossword typically refers to avoiding, evading, or finding a way around something. It can imply a physical movement, as in dodging, or a more metaphorical one, as in avoiding a topic or responsibility. Common answers include DUCK, DODGE, AVOID, or EVADE.
Are there common synonyms for 'sidestep' that appear in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms often used as answers for 'sidestep' clues include: AVOID, DUCK, DODGE, EVADE, SHUN, ELUDE, BYPASS, FENCE, or SWERVE. The length of the answer blanks will help you determine the correct word.
How do I choose the right 'sidestep' answer from multiple options?
To choose the correct answer, first check the number of letters in the blank. Then, look at intersecting letters from other clues. Finally, consider the specific nuance of the clue – does it imply a quick physical movement (DUCK, DODGE) or a more general avoidance (AVOID, EVADE)?