strokes crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stumped by the clue "strokes," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently. Find the perfect fit for your grid below!
Solutions for "strokes crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HITS: Quick, impactful actions often associated with striking something.
PATS: Gentle, affectionate touches, typically with an open hand.
OARS: The actions of propelling a boat through water using oars.
5 Letters
BLOWS: Forceful impacts or actions, often delivering a punch or strike.
6 Letters
SWIPES: Quick, sweeping movements, often of a hand or object across a surface.
7 Letters
BRUSHES: Light, superficial touches or marks, as if made with a brush.
ATTACKS: Aggressive or sudden actions, often in sports (e.g., swimming strokes) or combat.
8 Letters
CARESSES: Gentle, affectionate touches, usually with the hand, often indicating fondness.
12 Letters
BRUSHSTROKES: Distinctive marks or movements made by a paintbrush, especially in art.
More About "strokes crossword clue"
The word "strokes" is a versatile term in the English language, leading to its frequent and sometimes challenging appearance in crossword puzzles. It can refer to a multitude of actions and concepts, ranging from physical contact and movement to artistic endeavors and even medical conditions. When encountering this clue, it's crucial to consider the context provided by other words in the clue, as well as the number of letters required for the answer.
Common interpretations include gentle touches or caresses, as well as forceful impacts or hits. In a nautical context, "strokes" might refer to the rhythmic movement of oars in rowing. Art enthusiasts will immediately think of "brushstrokes," the defining marks of a painting. The diverse nature of this word means that a single clue can have several valid answers depending on the setter's intent, making it a true test of a solver's vocabulary and lateral thinking.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide you with all possible solutions and their nuances, ensuring you're equipped to handle "strokes" in any crossword grid. By understanding the breadth of its meanings, you'll not only solve the current puzzle but also enhance your overall crossword-solving abilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For "strokes," notice if the clue hints at gentleness ("tender strokes") or force ("powerful strokes"). This can guide you to answers like PATS or BLOWS.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Once you've filled in some letters from intersecting words, these can often reveal which of the possible answers for "strokes" is the correct one.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: If the puzzle has a theme (e.g., a sports theme), "strokes" might lean towards athletic movements (like swimming or rowing strokes). If it's art-themed, "brushstrokes" becomes more likely.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Don't just stick to the first meaning that comes to mind. Crossword setters love to use words with multiple meanings. For "strokes," consider everything from physical actions to artistic marks.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common meanings for 'strokes' in crosswords?
'Strokes' can refer to various actions: gentle touches (pats, caresses), forceful impacts (hits, blows, attacks), movements in water (oars, swims), or marks made (brushstrokes, dashes). The context of the clue and surrounding letters is key to determining the correct answer.
How can I tell if 'strokes' refers to a medical condition or an action in a crossword?
The clue usually provides crucial context. If it refers to a medical event, it might include words like 'cerebral,' 'apoplectic fit,' or 'seizure.' If it's an action, it will suggest movement, physical contact, or effort, such as 'gentle touches,' 'rowing actions,' or 'artistic marks.' Always look for additional descriptive words in the clue.
Are there any common misinterpretations for 'strokes' in crossword clues?
A common pitfall is to only think of one dominant meaning, such as 'hits,' when the clue might be looking for a less common synonym like 'caresses' or 'oars.' Another misinterpretation can occur if one assumes it's always plural when a singular answer might fit the letter count. Always consider the full range of synonyms, homographs, and verb conjugations for 'stroke.'