starts crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "starts crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's get you unstuck!
Solutions for "starts crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
OPENS: To set something in motion or make accessible.
LEADS: To go first, initiating a sequence or event.
6 Letters
BEGINS: To initiate or commence an action or process.
8 Letters
KICKSOFF: To start an event or activity, often with enthusiasm.
PIONEERS: To be the first to develop or apply a new method or area of knowledge.
9 Letters
INITIATES: To cause an action or process to begin.
More About "starts crossword clue"
"Starts" is a common and versatile verb often used in crossword clues to indicate the beginning of an action, process, or entity. Depending on the context, it can imply a literal commencement, like the start of a race, or a more metaphorical one, such as the beginning of a trend or a new era. Crossword setters frequently employ synonyms for "begin," "commence," "inaugurate," or "launch" when crafting clues around this theme. The precise meaning often relies heavily on surrounding words in the clue.
When encountering "starts" in a clue, it's crucial to consider not just its primary definition but also its various nuances. Does it refer to a person who starts something (e.g., a pioneer)? Does it relate to a starting point or origin? Pondering these possibilities can help narrow down the list of potential answers. The elegance of crossword puzzles lies in their ability to use seemingly simple words like "starts" to hint at a wide array of solutions, from straightforward synonyms to more lateral interpretations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Examine the Tense and Number: "Starts" (present tense, singular) is different from "started" (past tense) or "starting" (present participle). This grammatical consistency is key in finding the correct answer.
- Look for Context Clues: The words surrounding "starts" are vital. "Starts a journey" might lead to different answers than "starts a business" or "starts an engine."
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: "Starts" can be part of a phrasal verb like "starts off" or "starts up." While our answers are single words, recognizing such patterns can help if the clue points to a compound answer.
- Think of Opposites: Sometimes, understanding what a word isn't can help. The opposite of 'starts' might be 'ends' or 'finishes', which can occasionally offer a mental pathway to the correct solution.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "starts" mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, "starts" typically implies the beginning of something, whether it's an action, a journey, a process, or an era. It often points to synonyms like BEGINS, INITIATES, COMMENCES, or OPENS. Context from the rest of the clue is key.
How do I find the right answer for a "starts" clue?
Consider the number of letters required, any intersecting letters you already have, and whether the clue implies a literal beginning (like "starts a car") or a more metaphorical one (like "starts a trend"). Think about synonyms for "begin," "commence," "launch," or "originate."
Can "starts" indicate an abbreviation or part of a phrase?
While less common for "starts" itself, some clues might use a verb form to hint at an abbreviation or a phrase. For instance, "starts school" might hint at an initialism or the act of enrollment. Always be mindful of wordplay and different interpretations in crosswords.