steal crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "steal crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive answers categorized by letter length to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "steal crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ROB: To take property unlawfully from a person or place, often by force or threat.
4 Letters
LIFT: To steal, often in a casual manner, as in shoplifting.
NICK: Informal term meaning to steal something, usually small or of little value.
5 Letters
SWIPE: To steal or take something quickly and stealthily.
FILCH: To pilfer or steal, especially something of small value, in a casual way.
HEIST: To carry out a robbery or a large-scale theft.
6 Letters
PILFER: To steal (typically things of relatively little value).
THIEVE: To engage in the act of stealing; to take without right or permission.
8 Letters
PURDLOIN: An archaic term meaning to steal something, especially something entrusted to one's care; to embezzle.
11 Letters
APPROPRIATE: To take for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission.
More About "steal crossword"
The clue "steal crossword" is a classic in the world of puzzles due to the sheer number of synonyms for the word "steal" in the English language. From petty pilfering to grand heists, the concept of illicitly taking something is expressed through a rich vocabulary, making it a versatile clue for setters.
When you encounter "steal" in a crossword, it's crucial to consider not just the core meaning, but also the nuance. Is the clue hinting at a forceful act (ROB), a subtle taking (SWIPE, FILCH), or perhaps an older, more formal term (PURDLOIN, APPROPRIATE)? The letter count and any already-placed letters are your primary guides, but understanding the subtle differences in meaning can often lead you to the correct answer faster.
Crossword setters often play on the various contexts of "steal." Sometimes it refers to taking an object, other times to taking an idea or even time. Always keep an open mind to the less obvious interpretations, especially in cryptic crosswords where wordplay is paramount.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required. This instantly narrows down your options for "steal" to a manageable set.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters from crossing words are invaluable. If you have an 'I' in the third position, you can immediately rule out answers that don't fit.
- Consider Nuance and Context: Does the clue imply a specific type of theft (e.g., "petty theft" for FILCH or PILFER, "large-scale" for HEIST)? Pay attention to adjectives or adverbs in the clue.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: For cryptic crosswords, "steal" might be a homophone (sounds like another word), part of an anagram, or even refer to a 'base' in baseball (as in 'steal a base').
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'steal' in crosswords?
The word 'steal' has numerous synonyms in English, each with slightly different connotations (e.g., pilfer, rob, swipe, filch, lift). Crossword setters leverage this rich vocabulary to create diverse clues that fit various letter counts and cryptic styles.
How can I tell which 'steal' answer is correct?
Look at the number of letters required for the answer, and any intersecting letters from other clues. Also, consider the specific phrasing of the 'steal' clue itself – sometimes it implies a petty theft (pilfer, filch), a more forceful act (rob), or a casual taking (swipe, lift).
Are there common cryptic crossword meanings for 'steal'?
Yes, in cryptic crosswords, 'steal' might be part of an anagram indicator (e.g., 'stolen goods' might hint at an anagram), or it could refer to a 'base' or 'home' in baseball (a 'stolen base'). Always consider literal, metaphorical, and wordplay meanings.