using up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "using up". Whether you're stuck or just verifying, we have the answers you need, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations.
Solutions for "using up crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
WASTING: To use or expend carelessly, extravagantly, or to no purpose.
8 Letters
SPENDING: To use or consume resources, typically money or time.
DRAINING: To exhaust or deplete of resources, strength, or energy.
9 Letters
CONSUMING: To use up a resource, often in large quantities.
DEPLETING: To reduce the amount of something, especially a natural resource.
EXPENDING: To spend or use up a resource such as money, time, or energy.
FINISHING: To bring something to an end, often by using or consuming all of it.
More About "using up crossword clue"
The phrase "using up" is a common concept in crosswords, often hinting at actions related to consumption, depletion, or the end of a supply. Clues involving "using up" can appear in various contexts, from the literal consumption of food or resources to the metaphorical use of time or energy. Understanding the subtle nuances of synonyms for "use" and "end" is key to deciphering these clues.
Crossword setters love to play with words that have multiple meanings or applications. When you see "using up," consider if it's referring to an active process of consumption (like eating all the biscuits), a gradual exhaustion (like a battery running out), or a final act of completion (like finishing a task). The surrounding words in the clue often provide vital context, guiding you towards the precise synonym intended.
Our comprehensive list above covers the most frequent answers you'll encounter for this type of clue, across various common letter counts. By providing not just the answer but also a brief explanation, we aim to enhance your understanding and help you become a more proficient crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always read the full clue. If "using up" is part of a longer phrase, the other words will narrow down the possibilities significantly.
- Consider Verbs and Nouns: Determine if the answer is an action (verb, like CONSUMING) or a state/result (noun, though less common for "using up").
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a few potential words in mind, match them against the required letter count. This is often the fastest way to eliminate incorrect guesses.
- Look for Prefixes/Suffixes: Some clues might hint at words with specific prefixes (e.g., RE- for reuse) or suffixes (-ING for continuous action).
- Cross-Reference: Use intersecting letters from other solved clues to confirm your answer. If a letter doesn't fit, your "using up" guess might be incorrect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'using up' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'using up' often refers to consuming, expending, or depleting resources, energy, or time. Clues might hint at the end of a supply or a process of exhaustion.
Are there common word lengths for answers to 'using up' clues?
Answers to 'using up' can vary greatly in length, from shorter words like WASTING (7 letters) to longer ones such as CONSUMING, DEPLETING, EXPENDING, or FINISHING (all 9 letters).
How can I quickly identify the correct 'using up' answer?
Consider the surrounding words in the clue for context, look at the number of letters required, and check if any crossing letters fit. Think about synonyms for 'consume', 'exhaust', or 'finish'.