to obstruct a debate to filibuster crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most comprehensive and accurate solutions for the crossword clue "to obstruct a debate to filibuster". We provide answers sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and understand the context.
Solutions for "to obstruct a debate to filibuster crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DELAY: To intentionally slow down or postpone proceedings, often used in the context of parliamentary tactics to obstruct or filibuster.
STALL: To stop or cause to stop making progress, particularly to gain time or avoid a decision, directly reflecting the action of a filibuster.
9 Letters
STONEWALL: To delay or block a request, process, or person by refusing to cooperate and by being evasive or obstructive, perfectly capturing the essence of a filibuster.
More About "to obstruct a debate to filibuster crossword clue"
The clue "to obstruct a debate to filibuster" directly points to a well-known parliamentary procedure, most notably used in legislative bodies like the US Senate. A filibuster is a procedural tactic used by a minority of members to delay or block a vote on a bill or other measure. It involves extended debate, often by making long speeches, reading from books, or engaging in other time-consuming actions to prevent a vote from occurring.
Understanding this political maneuver is key to solving the crossword. The answers provided—DELAY, STALL, and STONEWALL—are all synonyms or direct actions associated with the act of filibustering. They describe the essence of slowing down or entirely stopping a legislative process through obstructive means. Crossword setters frequently use such specific terms to test a solver's general knowledge and vocabulary related to civics and politics.
Recognizing the core action of "obstructing" or "delaying" is crucial. While "filibuster" itself is a specific term, the clue often asks for the *action* involved. Therefore, broader synonyms for hindering or holding up proceedings are common answers. Always consider the length of the required answer, as different synonyms will fit different letter counts, guiding you to the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Core Action: For clues involving specific actions or procedures, break them down to their fundamental meaning. "Filibuster" breaks down to "delay" or "obstruct."
- Consider Synonyms and Related Terms: Once you have the core action, brainstorm synonyms that fit various letter counts. Think of both formal and informal terms.
- Think About Context: Is the clue political, scientific, or everyday? The context helps narrow down possible answers and often provides hints about the tone (formal vs. informal).
- Check Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to help deduce the remaining letters for the current clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a filibuster in the context of a debate?
A filibuster is a tactic used in a legislature (like the US Senate) to delay or entirely prevent a vote on a proposal by extending debate on the proposal. It involves prolonged speech-making or other obstructive actions by a single member or a minority of members to run out time or force concessions.
How can I find crossword answers for similar political terms?
When looking for crossword answers related to politics or specific parliamentary terms, consider synonyms for actions like 'delay,' 'block,' 'obstruct,' or 'talk at length.' Also, think about common abbreviations, historical events, or specific roles linked to these terms. Crossword clues often use figurative language, so consider the metaphorical meaning as well.
What are common lengths for answers related to 'obstructing a debate'?
Answers related to obstructing a debate, such as 'filibuster,' can vary in length. Common solutions often range from 4 to 9 letters, including words like 'DELAY' (5 letters), 'STALL' (5 letters), 'PROLONG' (7 letters), 'BOGDOWN' (7 letters), or 'STONEWALL' (9 letters), depending on the specific nuance required by the clue and available letters.