wards off crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "wards off," you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your puzzle.
Solutions for "wards off crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FEND: To defend oneself from a blow, attack, or assailant, often used with 'off' as in 'fend off'.
5 Letters
REPEL: To drive or force (an attack or attacker) back or away.
AVERT: To turn away (one's eyes or thoughts) or prevent (an anticipated undesirable occurrence) from happening.
7 Letters
PREVENT: To stop something from happening or arising.
More About "wards off crossword clue"
The clue "wards off" is a common phrase in English that refers to the act of defending against, repelling, or preventing something undesirable. In crosswords, it often points to synonyms that imply a defensive action, a turning away, or a stopping of an impending threat or situation. The context of the puzzle, such as whether it's an abstract concept being warded off (like a cold or boredom) or a physical threat, can subtly influence the best answer.
When you encounter this clue, consider the nuances of its meaning. While 'repel' might fit a physical attack, 'avert' might be more suitable for a disaster or an unpleasant situation. 'Fend' often appears in the phrasal verb 'fend off', suggesting a more active or ongoing effort to keep something at bay. Always cross-reference with known letters to ensure the best fit for your specific puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Count: Always check how many letters your answer requires. This is the single most important piece of information for narrowing down possibilities for clues like "wards off."
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For action-oriented clues like this, thinking of direct synonyms for "wards off" (like repel, avert, prevent) is key. Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can also spark an idea.
- Look for Phrasal Verbs: "Wards off" itself is part of a phrasal verb. Consider if the answer might be part of another common phrasal verb such as "fend off" or "stave off."
- Check Surrounding Clues: The letters from intersecting words are invaluable. Don't try to solve a tough clue in isolation; use every letter you've already filled in to guide your choice.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'wards off' mean in a crossword clue?
'Wards off' typically means to defend against, repel, or prevent something from happening or coming closer. It implies an action taken to keep something undesirable at bay, whether it's an attack, a cold, or a feeling.
How do I approach a 'wards off' clue if I'm stuck?
Consider synonyms for 'repel,' 'defend,' 'avert,' or 'prevent.' Think about common phrases like 'fend off' or 'stave off.' Also, check the letter count you have available from intersecting words, as this will narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Are there common alternative phrases for 'wards off' in crosswords?
Yes, clues might use 'fends off,' 'staves off,' 'repels,' 'averts,' 'prevents,' 'deterrs,' or 'defends against.' Paying attention to the tense and plurality of the clue can also help differentiate similar answers.