sidesteps crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "sidesteps" clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle moving again.
Solutions for "sidesteps crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
EVADE: To escape or avoid (someone or something), especially by cunning or skill.
6 Letters
AVOIDS: To keep away from or stop oneself from doing something.
DODGES: To avoid (something) by a sudden quick movement, or to evade a question.
ELUDES: To escape from or avoid (a danger, enemy, or pursuer), often skillfully.
7 Letters
ESCHEWS: Deliberately avoid using; abstain from.
8 Letters
BYPASSES: To go past or around something rather than through it.
11 Letters
CIRCUMVENTS: To find a way around (an obstacle, typically in a clever and surreptitious way).
More About "sidesteps crossword clue"
The clue "sidesteps" often appears in crosswords to prompt answers related to avoidance, evasion, or a clever way of getting around something. It can be interpreted literally, as in moving physically to the side, or figuratively, as in avoiding a topic or responsibility. Understanding this dual nature of the word is key to unlocking the correct answer, as different synonyms might fit better depending on the overall theme or other intersecting clues in the puzzle.
When you encounter "sidesteps," consider both short and long synonyms. Sometimes, the setter is looking for a direct synonym like AVOIDS or DODGES. Other times, they might be hinting at a more nuanced action, such as ESCHEWS (to deliberately avoid using) or CIRCUMVENTS (to find a way around a difficulty). Always pay close attention to any accompanying words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning, such as "a question" or "obstacles."
Remember that crossword setters often play with word meanings and synonyms. 'Sidesteps' is a versatile word, and its answer can vary greatly depending on the puzzle's difficulty and style. Reviewing various answers by length, as provided above, helps you quickly identify the best fit for your specific puzzle grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "sidesteps," consider if it implies physical movement, avoidance of a situation, or clever circumvention. This can guide you towards more specific synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These fixed letters are crucial for narrowing down the possibilities, especially when multiple answers have the same letter count.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Familiarize yourself with words frequently used in crosswords for common concepts. Words like AVOIDS, DODGES, and ELUDES are regulars for "sidesteps" type clues.
- Look for Plurals or Tenses: Notice if the clue is plural (sidesteps) or indicates a past tense (sidestepped). Your answer must match the tense and number to be correct.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sidesteps' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'sidesteps' typically refers to actions of avoiding, evading, or circumventing something. It can relate to physical movement (moving to the side to avoid an obstacle) or metaphorical avoidance (dodging a question, circumventing a rule).
Are there common synonyms for 'sidesteps' used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include AVOIDS, DODGES, ELUDES, ESCHEWS, EVADES, and sometimes more complex words like CIRCUMVENTS or BYPASSES, depending on the clue's nuance and the required letter count.
How do I determine the correct letter count for 'sidesteps' answers?
The number of blanks in your crossword grid will dictate the length of the answer. For 'sidesteps,' answers can range from 5 letters (e.g., EVADE) to 11 letters (e.g., CIRCUMVENTS). Always match the potential answer to the exact number of squares provided in your puzzle.