avoid crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "avoid crossword puzzle clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "avoid crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SHUN: To persistently avoid, ignore, or reject (someone or something) through antipathy or caution.
5 Letters
DODGE: To avoid (someone or something) by a sudden quick movement, or to evade a duty or responsibility.
EVADE: To escape or avoid (someone or something), especially by cleverness or trickery.
6 Letters
ESCHEW: To deliberately avoid using; to abstain from (something undesirable).
BYPASS: To go past or around an obstacle, problem, or restriction.
7 Letters
PREVENT: To keep (something) from happening or arising.
More About "avoid crossword puzzle clue"
The word "avoid" is a versatile verb in the English language, meaning to keep away from or stop oneself from doing something. In crosswords, this versatility is often reflected in the wide array of synonyms that can be used as answers. From simple, direct synonyms like "shun" to more nuanced terms like "eschew" or "evade," the correct answer often depends on the specific context or the number of letters required.
Understanding the subtle differences between these words is key to mastering "avoid" clues. For instance, "dodge" implies a quick, physical maneuver, while "prevent" suggests taking action to stop something from occurring. Crossword setters love to play on these distinctions, challenging solvers to think beyond the most obvious synonym.
Always consider the overall theme of the puzzle, if any, and other intersecting words. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific type of avoidance, such as avoiding responsibility (evade) or avoiding a person (shun). The more cross-referenced letters you have, the easier it will be to narrow down the correct solution from the list provided above.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters in the answer grid. This is your primary filter for any clue, especially for common words like "avoid" with many synonyms of varying lengths.
- Consider Nuance: Think about the subtle meanings of different synonyms. Does "avoid" in the clue imply a physical action (DODGE), a deliberate abstention (ESCHEW), or preventing an event (PREVENT)?
- Look at Crossings: Utilize any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These letters are crucial for confirming or eliminating potential answers for "avoid."
- Broaden Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading and expanding your vocabulary will naturally expose you to more synonyms, making it easier to recall them under pressure during a crossword.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for 'avoid'?
Crossword clues often have multiple correct answers because words can have various synonyms, different nuances of meaning, or can fit different letter counts required by the puzzle grid. 'Avoid' is a versatile verb with many related terms, allowing for a range of valid solutions.
How can I figure out which 'avoid' synonym is correct for my puzzle?
The key is to use the letter count provided by the puzzle. If the grid demands a 4-letter word, 'SHUN' might be right. If it's 6 letters, 'ESCHEW' or 'BYPASS' could fit. Also, consider any crossing letters you already have, as they will narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Are there specific types of 'avoidance' clues?
Yes, 'avoid' clues can be direct ('Steer clear of'), describe a specific action ('Dodge a question'), or imply prevention ('Keep from happening'). Paying attention to these nuances can help you pick the most precise synonym like 'EVADE' for cunning avoidance or 'PREVENT' for stopping an event.