steals crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for answers to the clue 'steals crossword clue', you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "steals crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NABS: To seize or snatch, often implying theft.
ROBS: To unlawfully take property from a person or place, often by force or threat.
5 Letters
LIFTS: To take something without permission, typically implying shoplifting.
7 Letters
PINCHES: To steal something, often informally or implying a small item.
PILFERS: To steal things of small value, especially habitually or stealthily.
More About "steals crossword clue"
The word "steals" is a versatile term in both everyday language and crossword puzzles, carrying a range of connotations from outright robbery to more subtle appropriations. In crosswords, setters frequently leverage this versatility, often using less common synonyms to create a challenge. Understanding these nuances is key to cracking the clue.
Clues involving "steals" might refer to taking physical objects (like 'robs' or 'pilfers'), but also actions like 'stealing a base' in sports, 'stealing a glance', or even 'stealing the show' – meaning to perform exceptionally well and capture attention. The context provided by other words in the clue is paramount in narrowing down the possibilities.
By offering various answers like NABS, LIFTS, and PINCHES, we aim to cover the spectrum of meanings and lengths, ensuring you find the right fit for your puzzle. Keep in mind that a good crossword solver always considers the precise letter count and any surrounding letters already filled in.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all synonyms: "Steals" has a rich vocabulary of synonyms, from formal terms like 'embezzles' to slang like 'nabs' or 'lifts'. Think broadly about the tone and context the clue might imply.
- Pay attention to letter count: This is a crucial constraint. 'Steals' can yield answers from four letters (e.g., NABS) to seven or more (e.g., PINCHES, PILFERS), so the number of boxes is your biggest hint.
- Look for contextual clues: Is the clue "Steals a car" or "Steals the spotlight"? The surrounding words can completely change the intended answer. Always read the full clue carefully.
- Use intersecting letters: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them to eliminate unlikely answers for "steals." This is one of the most effective ways to narrow down options.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common answer for 'steals' in crosswords?
Common answers for 'steals' often include 'NABS', 'LIFTS', and 'ROBS', depending on the letter count and specific nuance of the clue. It's always good to consider the context of the clue.
Why does 'lifts' mean 'steals' in crosswords?
'Lifts' is a common informal synonym for 'steals', particularly referring to shoplifting or taking something quickly and surreptitiously. Crossword setters often use these less literal or slang synonyms to challenge solvers and add variety to clues.
How can I distinguish between similar 'steals' answers like 'robs' and 'pilfers'?
'Robs' typically implies taking with force or threat, or from a place (like a bank robbery), often involving larger sums or items. 'Pilfers' usually refers to stealing small items, often habitually and stealthily, and implies things of lesser value, without the connotation of force.