stifle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "stifle" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "stifle crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
GAG: To prevent someone from speaking or expressing, often by physically blocking the mouth.
4 Letters
HUSH: To make silent; to quiet or silence something, often a sound or commotion.
5 Letters
QUASH: To put an end to something, especially by force; suppress or reject firmly.
6 Letters
MUFFLE: To wrap or cover for warmth or protection, but commonly used in crosswords to mean to deaden or reduce the sound of something.
7 Letters
SMOTHER: To prevent from breathing, but also widely used to mean to suppress or hold back, especially emotions or a fire.
8 Letters
SUPPRESS: To forcibly put an end to; prevent the development, action, or expression of something.
More About "stifle crossword clue"
The word "stifle" in crosswords is a versatile clue, pointing to a range of actions from physically stopping something to metaphorically suppressing an idea or emotion. Its core meaning revolves around prevention or inhibition. Depending on the context, it can refer to stopping a noise, hindering growth, or even holding back a yawn or a laugh.
Crossword setters love words like "stifle" because they have multiple synonyms and can fit into various word lengths. This provides them with flexibility when constructing puzzles. When you see "stifle" as a clue, think about its different nuances: is it about quietude (HUSH, MUFFLE), forceful termination (QUASH, SUPPRESS), or inhibiting something (SMOTHER, GAG)?
Consider the other words in the clue as well as the letter count. For example, if the clue is "stifle a yawn," 'SMOTHER' might be a perfect fit. If it's about "stifle dissent," then 'SUPPRESS' or 'QUASH' would be more appropriate. Always let the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the puzzle guide your choice.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "stifle," consider the subtle differences between synonyms. Is the clue implying a gentle quietening or a forceful suppression?
- Check Letter Count First: Always match your potential answer's length with the number of boxes provided in the grid. This is your first and most reliable filter.
- Look for Cross-References: If you're stuck on "stifle," try to solve any intersecting clues. The letters you fill in from other answers will quickly reveal the correct solution for "stifle."
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword clues use less common meanings or synonyms. If your first thoughts don't fit, consider alternative interpretations of "stifle" or its related words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'stifle' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'stifle' often refers to suppressing, holding back, or silencing something. Common synonyms include 'gag,' 'hush,' 'smother,' or 'suppress.' It implies an action to prevent something from developing or expressing itself freely.
Are there common word lengths for 'stifle' answers?
Answers for 'stifle' can vary widely in length, from short words like 'GAG' (3 letters) or 'HUSH' (4 letters) to longer ones like 'SMOTHER' (7 letters) or 'SUPPRESS' (8 letters). Always check the given letter count in your puzzle to narrow down the possibilities.
How can I distinguish between similar 'stifle' synonyms?
Pay close attention to the other clue words and any crossing letters. For example, 'smother' implies a more complete suppression, while 'hush' suggests quiet. The context of the puzzle, the exact wording of the clue, and any other synonyms provided will help you select the most fitting answer.