start crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "start", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We've included common answers and less obvious ones, along with brief explanations to clarify their relevance.
Solutions for "start crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROOT: A fundamental beginning or source.
OPEN: To begin an activity, process, or period.
5 Letters
BEGIN: To perform or undergo the first part of an action or activity.
ONSET: The beginning of something, especially something unpleasant.
6 Letters
LAUNCH: To begin or initiate (a venture or undertaking).
OUTSET: The start or beginning of something.
8 Letters
COMMENCE: To begin; start.
INITIATE: To cause (something) to begin.
More About "start crossword puzzle clue"
The word "start" is a versatile term, and in crosswords, this versatility is often exploited by setters. It can refer to the beginning of a process, a journey, a career, or even the initial jolt of surprise. Understanding the nuances of "start" is key to solving clues that use it. For instance, a clue might refer to the 'start of a race' (GUNSHOT or GO) or the 'start of an era' (DAWN or BIRTH).
Crossword puzzles frequently use synonyms for common words like "start". When you encounter "start" as a clue, think about what kind of beginning is implied. Is it a physical act, an abstract concept, or part of a larger idiom? Paying attention to the part of speech and any surrounding words in the clue can guide you towards the correct synonym, whether it's a four-letter word like ROOT or a longer one like INITIATE.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Context: Don't just look for a direct synonym. Consider if "start" is used as a verb, noun, or adjective. "Start" as a verb might lead to actions like 'begin' or 'commence', while 'the start' (noun) could suggest 'onset' or 'origin'.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Once you've filled in a few intersecting words, use the revealed letters to narrow down possibilities for "start". Sometimes, only one synonym will fit the letter pattern.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs/Idioms: "Start" appears in many common phrases (e.g., 'start over', 'start up', 'get a good start'). While single-word answers are common, sometimes the answer might be part of an implied idiom.
- Think of Opposites: If you're truly stuck, sometimes thinking of the opposite (e.g., 'end', 'finish') can help you brainstorm related concepts or even lead you to a different way of thinking about the 'start'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I start solving a crossword puzzle?
Begin by scanning all the clues for ones you know immediately, especially short, direct definitions. Fill in these easy answers first, as they provide letters for intersecting words, making other clues easier to deduce. Pay attention to clue types (e.g., definitions, puns, anagrams) and word lengths.
What are common synonyms for 'start' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'start' often include BEGIN, OPEN, LAUNCH, COMMENCE, INITIATE, ONSET, OUTSET, or even words like ORIGIN, ROOT, or DEBUT, depending on the context and the number of letters required.
Are there different types of 'start' clues?
Yes, 'start' can appear in many forms. It could be a noun (e.g., 'the start of a race'), a verb (e.g., 'to start a car'), or part of a phrase (e.g., 'start over'). It can also be clued by association with beginnings, such as 'birth' or 'dawn', or as part of wordplay like 'first letter of...' or 'initials'.