undermine crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "undermine crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "undermine crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SAP: To gradually weaken or destroy someone or something's strength or vitality.
5 Letters
ERODE: To gradually wear away or cause to deteriorate, often through natural forces or consistent pressure.
6 Letters
WEAKEN: To make something less strong or effective; to reduce the power or vigor of.
IMPAIR: To weaken or damage something, especially a faculty or function, making it less effective.
THWART: To prevent someone from accomplishing something; to oppose successfully.
7 Letters
SUBVERT: To undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution.
More About "undermine crossword clue"
The word "undermine" is a classic crossword clue because it has several synonyms that fit various letter counts and contexts. It broadly refers to weakening or eroding something, whether it's a foundation, an argument, or someone's confidence. Crossword setters love words with multiple meanings or subtle nuances, and "undermine" fits this perfectly, allowing for diverse solutions.
When you see "undermine" in a clue, think about the different ways something can be weakened. Is it a physical structure that is eroding (ERODE, SAP), a person's resolve that is being diminished (WEAKEN, IMPAIR), or a system that is being challenged from within (SUBVERT)? The specific phrasing of the clue and any letters you already have will be crucial in determining the correct answer among the possibilities.
Understanding the various facets of "undermine" will not only help you solve this specific clue but also broaden your crossword vocabulary. Recognizing common synonyms for this concept can give you an edge in future puzzles involving similar themes of weakening or destruction.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of boxes provided for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, helping you focus on answers like SAP (3 letters) versus SUBVERT (7 letters).
- Look for Contextual Clues: Does the clue hint at a slow process (like ERODE or SAP)? Or a more direct attack (like THWART or SUBVERT)? The subtle wording can often point you to the precise synonym needed.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If you have any letters filled in from crossing words, use them! They will quickly confirm or rule out potential answers, making your job much easier.
- Think of Figurative Meanings: "Undermine" can be literal (digging beneath) or figurative (weakening morale). Consider both aspects when brainstorming answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many letters are in the answer for 'undermine'?
The answer for 'undermine' can vary in length, commonly found solutions include 3-letter words like SAP, 5-letter words like ERODE, 6-letter words such as WEAKEN or IMPAIR, and longer options like SUBVERT (7 letters).
What's the best way to approach 'undermine' in a crossword?
When encountering 'undermine' as a clue, consider synonyms that imply weakening, eroding, or subverting. Pay close attention to the letter count required, and check surrounding intersecting words to narrow down possibilities.
Are there common alternative clues for answers to 'undermine'?
Yes, words like SAP can also be clued as 'drain energy from'. ERODE might be 'wear away'. WEAKEN could be 'debilitate'. Always consider the specific context and any given letters in the puzzle.