stops crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue 'stops' in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "stops crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ENDS: To bring to a conclusion or finish.
5 Letters
HALTS: To cause to stop; to bring to an end or standstill.
6 Letters
PAUSES: To interrupt action or speech briefly.
CEASES: To come to an end; stop.
BREAKS: An interruption of continuity or uniformity, or to cause to stop working.
More About "stops crossword clue"
The word "stops" is a versatile term in the English language, which makes it a frequent and sometimes tricky crossword clue. It can be interpreted in several ways: as a verb meaning to cease movement or action, or as a noun referring to places where transport halts (like bus stops) or even specific devices (like door stops).
In crosswords, the key to solving "stops" often lies in analyzing the surrounding words in the clue for context. Is it implying a sudden halt, a gradual cessation, or perhaps a permanent conclusion? Understanding these nuances will help you differentiate between answers like HALTS, PAUSES, or CEASES, which, while all related to stopping, carry distinct connotations.
Cryptic clues might play on the multiple meanings of "stops" or use it in a clever wordplay context. For example, "stops" could be an anagram indicator, or part of a hidden word. Always consider if the clue is asking for a synonym, an antonym (if combined with other words), or a word related to its noun form.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Tense and Plurality: Notice if the clue is "stop," "stops," "stopped," or "stopping." This can guide you towards the correct verb tense or whether the answer should be plural.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm all possible synonyms for "stops" first. If the clue implies a contrast, consider antonyms too.
- Check Cross-References: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These can drastically narrow down the possibilities for "stops."
- Context is King: Is the clue implying a literal halt (e.g., traffic), an metaphorical end (e.g., a process), or a physical location? The context often points to the precise answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many letters should a 'stops' answer have?
The number of letters for a 'stops' answer can vary widely depending on the specific nuance the crossword setter intends. Common lengths range from 4 letters (like ENDS) to 6 letters (like PAUSES, CEASES, or BREAKS), or even longer for more specific synonyms or phrases.
What are common synonyms for 'stops' in crosswords?
Frequently encountered synonyms for 'stops' include HALTS, PAUSES, CEASES, ENDS, and BREAKS. The exact synonym chosen depends on the context of the clue, such as whether it implies a temporary halt, a definitive conclusion, or an interruption.
Can 'stops' refer to a physical place in a crossword clue?
Yes, 'stops' can indeed refer to a physical place. For instance, it could allude to a 'bus stop', 'train stop', or 'pit stop'. In such cases, the answer might be related to 'STATION', 'DEPOT', or even 'INNS' if it implies a place to rest during a journey. Always consider both the verb and noun meanings of the word when solving.