use crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "use crossword clue". We've gathered all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "use crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
APPLY: To put into practice or make use of for a specific purpose.
EXERT: To make a physical or mental effort; to bring a force, influence, or quality into operation.
6 Letters
EMPLOY: To make use of, especially in a practical or effective way.
7 Letters
UTILIZE: To make practical and effective use of.
CONSUME: To use up a resource; to take in, as food or drink.
More About "use crossword clue"
The word "use" is incredibly versatile, which often makes it a popular but sometimes tricky clue in crosswords. It can imply a wide range of actions, from operating a tool to consuming a resource, or even applying a skill or concept. When encountering "use" as a clue, solvers should consider the context provided by other intersecting words and any additional modifiers in the clue itself, such as "use up" or "put to use."
Crossword setters frequently leverage the various synonyms of "use" to fit specific letter counts. Common answers like APPLY, EMPLOY, and UTILIZE all convey a sense of putting something into service. Meanwhile, less obvious synonyms such as EXERT might be used when the clue implies a more forceful or deliberate application of effort or influence. Being familiar with these nuances is key to solving puzzles that feature this common verb.
Understanding the full spectrum of meanings for "use" can significantly improve your crossword-solving ability. It's not just about finding a direct synonym but also thinking about the specific action or outcome implied by the clue. This strategic thinking helps in navigating complex puzzles where a simple word like "use" can have multiple valid interpretations depending on the puzzle's theme or difficulty.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for words like "use" that have many synonyms.
- Look for Context Clues: Pay attention to any other words in the clue. "Use up" points to different answers (e.g., CONSUME) than "put to use" (e.g., APPLY).
- Think About Synonyms and Antonyms: For common words like "use," brainstorm a wide range of synonyms. Sometimes, a clue might subtly hint at an antonym if it's negated (e.g., "not use" could lead to DISCARD).
- Check Intersecting Words: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers will provide crucial hints for the "use" clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'use' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'use' in crossword puzzles include EMPLOY, APPLY, UTILIZE, OPERATE, HANDLE, EXPLOIT, and CONSUME. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and the context of other clues.
How do I determine the correct length for a crossword answer?
The correct length for a crossword answer is usually indicated by numbers in parentheses next to the clue, e.g., "use (5)". If not directly stated, you'll infer it from the intersecting words on the grid. Always count the letters carefully, as common variations exist for many words.
Are there different contexts for 'use' in clues?
Yes, 'use' can appear in many contexts. It might mean to operate (e.g., "Use a tool"), to wear out ("Use up resources"), to apply a skill ("Use common sense"), or even to consume ("Use ingredients"). Pay attention to subtle hints in the clue, like "use up" for CONSUME or "put to use" for APPLY.