weakens crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're struggling with the clue "weakens" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "weakens crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SAPS: To gradually undermine or weaken someone's strength or power.
5 Letters
THINS: To make or become less dense, less concentrated, or weaker.
6 Letters
ERODES: To gradually wear away or destroy, weakening something over time.
7 Letters
LESSENS: To diminish in extent, quantity, or intensity; to make less.
9 Letters
ENFEEBLES: To make weak or feeble.
11 Letters
DEBILITATES: To make (someone) very weak and infirm.
More About "weakens crossword clue"
The clue "weakens" is a common staple in crossword puzzles, often referring to a decrease in strength, intensity, or effectiveness. It can appear in various contexts, ranging from physical debilitation to the undermining of an argument or a structure. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer from the available options.
Crossword setters love to use synonyms for 'weakens' that might seem slightly off-kilter at first glance, but are perfectly accurate in a specific context. For instance, 'saps' implies a draining of energy, while 'erodes' suggests a slow, destructive process. Keeping an open mind to different forms of 'weakening' will broaden your pool of potential answers and increase your solving speed.
Consider the number of letters carefully, as this is your primary constraint. A four-letter answer like SAPS is drastically different from an eleven-letter answer like DEBILITATES. Always match the word length provided in the puzzle grid to the answer you're considering. Also, look at intersecting clues for letters that might confirm or deny a potential solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always start by counting the boxes. This immediately narrows down the possibilities and eliminates many irrelevant answers.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "weakens," consider its direct synonyms but also think about its opposite (strengthens, reinforces) and how that might be clued in other puzzles.
- Consider Context: Is the puzzle hinting at physical weakening, a weakening of resolve, a weakening of an argument, or something else entirely? The surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can provide vital context.
- Check Common Suffixes/Prefixes: Words related to "weakens" might use common prefixes like EN- (e.g., ENFEEBLES) or suffixes.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'weakens' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'weakens' in crossword puzzles include 'saps,' 'erodes,' 'impairs,' 'dilutes,' 'enfeebles,' 'debilitates,' and 'undermines.' The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How does word length affect the answer to 'weakens'?
Word length is crucial. A short answer like 'SAPS' (4 letters) is often used for simple weakening, while longer answers like 'DEBILITATES' (11 letters) or 'ENFEEBLES' (9 letters) are reserved for more severe or formal types of weakening. Always check the number of boxes provided in the grid.
Are there different contexts for 'weakens' in crosswords?
Yes, 'weakens' can refer to physical strength ('debilitates'), an argument or resolve ('undermines'), a solution ('dilutes'), or an object ('erodes'). The surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme can help determine the intended context.