stretch crossword clue 3 letters – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! If you're looking for answers to "stretch crossword clue 3 letters", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, clear explanations, and handy tips to help you conquer your puzzle.
Solutions for "stretch crossword clue 3 letters" by Letter Count
3 Letters
EXT: This answer is a common abbreviation for "extend," directly implying the act of stretching something out or making it longer. Often seen in clues like "Make longer, briefly" or "Extend (abbr.)."
RUN: In some contexts, "stretch" can refer to a continuous period or distance. For example, "a stretch of road" or "a run of bad luck." This answer fits when the clue implies a duration or expanse.
LIE: To "lie" can mean to stretch out or recline, as in "lie down and stretch your legs." This answer is used when the clue hints at a relaxed, prone position that involves extending one's body.
More About "stretch crossword clue 3 letters"
The clue "stretch" is a classic example of a word that can have multiple valid answers in a crossword puzzle, especially when limited to just three letters. This is due to its rich polysemy – the ability of a word to have various meanings. As a verb, "stretch" implies extending, pulling, or reaching. As a noun, it can refer to a continuous expanse of land, a period of time, or an act of stretching itself.
When encountering such a versatile clue, the key to success often lies in examining the intersecting letters from other solved words. These cross-references can quickly eliminate incorrect options and confirm the correct one. Additionally, paying close attention to any subtle nuances or implied context in the clue can guide you towards the setter's intended meaning.
Understanding these multiple interpretations is crucial for mastering crosswords. Three-letter words are particularly challenging because there's less room for error, and the setters often rely on common abbreviations, synonyms, or less obvious definitions to stump solvers. Familiarity with these common answers for "stretch" will significantly boost your solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Crossing Letters: Always use the letters you've already solved from intersecting words. For short answers like 3-letter ones, even one confirmed letter can often reveal the entire word.
- Consider All Meanings: Don't just think of the most common definition. Words like "stretch" have many uses. Think about synonyms for each different meaning (e.g., extend, lie, run, pull, expanse).
- Look for Abbreviations: For short answers, abbreviations (like EXT for extend) are very common. If a clue feels a bit off or too direct, an abbreviation might be the answer.
- Think of Homonyms/Homophones: Sometimes clues play on words that sound alike but are spelled differently. While less common for a verb like "stretch," it's a good general strategy for tricky clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple 3-letter answers for the clue 'stretch'?
The word 'stretch' is highly polysemous, meaning it has multiple meanings and can be used as both a verb and a noun. In crosswords, setters often exploit these different meanings. For example, 'stretch' can mean to extend (EXT), a period of time (RUN), or to recline (LIE), leading to various valid answers depending on the context of the puzzle.
How can I determine the correct 3-letter answer for 'stretch' in my specific crossword?
To pinpoint the exact answer, always look at the crossing letters from other words you've already solved. These letters will narrow down the possibilities. Additionally, consider the nuance of the clue itself: Is it looking for an abbreviation? A noun form? A verb? The constructor's overall theme or typical clue style can also offer hints.
What other types of 'stretch' related clues might I encounter in crosswords?
Beyond the 3-letter answers, 'stretch' can appear in clues for longer words like 'ELONGATE' (8 letters), 'EXPAND' (6 letters), 'EXTEND' (6 letters), or even idiomatic phrases like 'STRETCH OUT' or 'STRETCH A POINT'. Sometimes it refers to a 'stretch' of road (ROUTE) or a period in prison (TERM).