betray crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "betray crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and finish your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "betray crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SELL: To betray, often for gain or by revealing information.
JILT: To abandon or reject (a lover) abruptly or contemptuously.
TELL: To reveal a secret, often accidentally or under pressure.
5 Letters
GRASS: (Slang, British) To inform on someone to the police, thus betraying them.
SPILL: To let out (a secret or confession).
6 Letters
EXPOSE: To make something visible or known, often revealing something secret or discreditable.
REVEAL: To make known (something that was previously secret or unknown).
DESERT: To abandon (a person, cause, or organization) in a way considered disloyal or treacherous.
7 Letters
DECEIVE: To cause (someone) to believe something that is not true, typically in order to gain some personal advantage.
11 Letters
DOUBLECROSS: To deceive (someone with whom one is supposedly cooperating) by working to their disadvantage.
More About "betray crossword clue"
The concept of "betray" is a rich source for crossword setters, ranging from straightforward synonyms to more nuanced or figurative interpretations. Clues might focus on the act of revealing a secret, breaking trust, or abandoning a cause or person. Understanding these different facets can help you pinpoint the precise answer the setter is looking for.
Common themes include informing on someone (e.g., 'rat out', 'fink'), divulging confidential information (e.g., 'spill the beans', 'leak'), or simply letting someone down unexpectedly. The length of the answer often dictates the specificity or colloquialism required. Shorter answers like 'SELL' or 'JILT' are very direct, while longer ones like 'DOUBLECROSS' or 'UNDERMINE' offer more descriptive actions of betrayal.
Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue that might hint at the context – for example, "betray a secret" vs. "betray a lover." This can guide you towards the most appropriate synonym and avoid common pitfalls.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most important hint. If you have partial letters, try to match them with common words of betrayal for that length.
- Consider Nuances and Synonyms: Betrayal has many forms. Think about whether the clue implies a subtle deception, an open abandonment, or the revelation of a secret. Different synonyms will fit different nuances.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: Sometimes, a clue like "betray" might be a sound-alike or a wordplay. For instance, 'cell' might be clued as "betraying unit?" if it's a very tricky puzzle. Always consider the possibility of wordplay if direct synonyms don't fit.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is to see if its letters fit perfectly with the intersecting vertical or horizontal clues. If they don't, your answer is likely incorrect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'betray' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'betray' often implies revealing a secret, breaking trust, or abandoning a person or principle. Common synonyms like 'rat', 'tell', 'expose', or 'sell out' are frequent answers.
How can I find the right 'betray' answer if I have only a few letters?
If you have some letters, use them as a pattern. For example, if it's a 4-letter word and you have '_E_L', 'SELL' or 'TELL' become strong candidates. Consider the context of the puzzle, such as a themed puzzle or the specific publication, which can sometimes hint at a more common or obscure answer.
Are there different types of betrayal clues in crosswords?
Yes, 'betray' can refer to various forms: personal betrayal (e.g., JILT), revealing secrets (e.g., SPILL, EXPOSE), or abandoning a cause (e.g., DESERT). Sometimes, the clue might be a pun or a play on words, requiring a deeper understanding of the word's multiple meanings.