take by force crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "take by force", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, explained for clarity, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "take by force crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GRAB: To take or grasp suddenly and roughly. Often used in a less severe context than other 'take by force' synonyms, but still implies swift, often unexpected, acquisition.
5 Letters
SEIZE: To take hold of suddenly and forcibly. This answer is a very direct and common synonym for 'take by force', applicable in many contexts from objects to power.
USURP: To take (a position of power or importance) illegally or by force. This answer is more specific, typically relating to seizing control or authority without legal right.
6 Letters
EXTORT: To obtain (something, especially money or information) by force, threats, or other unfair means. This implies a more deliberate and often criminal act of taking by applying pressure.
More About "take by force crossword clue"
The phrase "take by force" can evoke various scenarios, from a sudden physical act to a strategic, often illicit, acquisition of power or resources. In crosswords, clues like this test your understanding of synonyms and their specific nuances. Depending on the context of the puzzle, an answer might lean towards physical action (like 'grab' or 'seize'), or it might refer to a more abstract or political power struggle (like 'usurp').
When encountering such a clue, it's beneficial to think about the different ways something can be 'taken by force'. Is it an object, a position, or information? The broader context of the puzzle – perhaps a themed crossword or surrounding clues – can often provide hints about which specific synonym is being sought.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "take by force," consider the subtle differences between synonyms. Does the puzzle imply a quick, informal action (grab), a more direct, powerful one (seize), or a specific act of illegitimate control (usurp)?
- Check Letter Count: Always cross-reference your potential answers with the required letter count. This is the most crucial constraint in any crossword.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is to see if its letters correctly form parts of the intersecting vertical or horizontal words. If they don't fit, your answer is likely incorrect.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Over time, you'll notice certain words are very common in crosswords for specific concepts. Building a mental library of these can significantly speed up your solving time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to approach a crossword clue like 'take by force'?
For action-oriented clues like 'take by force', consider synonyms that fit various letter counts. Think about different contexts: physical force (grab, seize), political force (usurp), or coercive force (extort). Also, consider if it's a noun or verb, although in this case, 'take' strongly suggests a verb.
Why might there be multiple answers for the same crossword clue?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because words have synonyms, varying shades of meaning, or can fit different puzzle themes. The correct answer usually depends on the number of letters required and how it fits with intersecting words in the puzzle.
How can I improve my vocabulary for solving crosswords?
Reading widely, especially classic literature or non-fiction, can significantly boost your vocabulary. Regularly checking a thesaurus for synonyms and antonyms of words you encounter, and even keeping a dedicated crossword vocabulary journal, can also be very effective.