ward off crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "ward off crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive answers by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your understanding.
Solutions for "ward off crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FEND: To defend or resist against something, often an attack or unwanted person.
5 Letters
REPEL: To drive or force something back or away.
AVERT: To prevent or ward off an undesirable occurrence.
DETER: To discourage someone from doing something through fear or doubt.
PARRY: To ward off an attack, especially with a countermove.
6 Letters
DEFEND: To protect from harm or danger.
More About "ward off crossword"
The phrase "ward off" is a common and versatile idiom in the English language, signifying an action taken to prevent something undesirable from happening or approaching. In the context of crosswords, it frequently appears as a direct synonym clue, prompting solvers to think of words that convey protection, repulsion, or avoidance. Understanding the subtle differences between synonyms like 'repel,' 'avert,' and 'fend' can be key to selecting the correct answer, especially when similar letter counts are present.
Clues involving "ward off" test your vocabulary related to defensive actions, both physical and metaphorical. For instance, you might ward off an attacker (physical) or ward off a cold (metaphorical prevention). Pay close attention to the number of letters required in the grid, as this is often the most direct hint. Additionally, consider if the clue implies a more active or passive form of prevention, which might guide you towards the most precise synonym.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "ward off," think about the precise action. Is it a forceful pushing away (REPEL), a turning aside to prevent (AVERT), or a general defensive action (FEND)?
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of boxes provided in the grid. This is your most powerful tool to filter out incorrect synonyms, even if you know many possibilities.
- Cross-Reference with Solved Letters: If you have intersecting words, use the letters already filled in to confirm or deny your potential "ward off" answers. This is crucial for puzzles where multiple synonyms fit the definition.
- Think of Phrasal Verbs: While single-word answers are common, sometimes "ward off" might hint at a phrasal verb if the puzzle allows for multiple words (e.g., STAVE OFF), though this is less common for direct single-box answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ward off' typically imply in crossword clues?
'Ward off' commonly implies an action of defense, prevention, or repulsion. In crosswords, it usually points to synonyms like REPEL, AVERT, FEND, or DETER, all indicating a proactive measure to keep something undesirable away.
Are there different contexts for 'ward off' in crosswords?
While 'ward off' often suggests physical defense, it can also refer to preventing an abstract concept, like 'warding off a cold' or 'warding off disaster.' The specific context of other clues in the puzzle might help narrow down the exact synonym needed, but generally, it's about keeping something away.
How can I improve my ability to solve 'ward off' type clues?
To improve, focus on expanding your vocabulary of synonyms related to defense, prevention, and repulsion. Practice regularly with diverse puzzles and pay attention to subtle nuances in definitions. Also, consider the letter count, as this is often the fastest way to narrow down possibilities.