crossword clue beat – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the crossword clue "beat" and need a quick solution, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword clue beat" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DRUM: To strike a surface repeatedly, often making a rhythmic sound.
ROUT: To defeat comprehensively; a disorderly retreat of defeated troops.
5 Letters
PULSE: A rhythmic throbbing, often referring to a heartbeat or a regular vibration.
EXCEL: To be superior in quality or performance; to surpass others.
6 Letters
DEFEAT: To win a victory over someone in a battle, contest, or competition.
THRASH: To hit someone or something repeatedly and violently; also, to defeat thoroughly.
7 Letters
CONQUER: To overcome and take control of (a place or people) by military force; to successfully overcome a problem.
8 Letters
OVERCOME: To succeed in dealing with (a problem or difficulty); to defeat an opponent.
More About "crossword clue beat"
The word "beat" is a versatile term in English, and its multiple meanings are frequently exploited in crossword puzzles. When you encounter "beat" as a clue, it's crucial to consider its various interpretations to find the correct answer.
Common meanings include: to defeat or win against (e.g., DEFEAT, OVERCOME, CONQUER); a rhythm or pulse (e.g., PULSE, DRUM); to strike or hit (e.g., THRASH, POUND); or to surpass or excel (e.g., EXCEL). Less common, but still possible, are meanings related to a path or mixing ingredients.
The key to solving "beat" clues lies in context. Always look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you might already have. Also, consider if the clue uses "beat" as a verb or a noun, and if it has any subtle idiomatic implications, as these can guide you to the precise solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "beat," brainstorm all its possible synonyms (defeat, rhythm, hit, excel) and sometimes even its antonyms if the clue hints at opposition or the reverse action.
- Check Letter Count and Intersections: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If you have intersecting letters from other clues, they will help you narrow down the possibilities significantly, guiding you to the precise word.
- Identify Parts of Speech: Is "beat" used as a verb (to defeat), a noun (a rhythm), or an adjective (beaten path)? Understanding the part of speech can drastically change the type of answer you're looking for and eliminate incorrect options.
- Look for Homographs and Homophones: English words often have multiple meanings or sound alike. "Beat" is a prime example of a word with various definitions. Always keep this in mind when encountering polysemous words in clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "beat" have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word "beat" is highly polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings (e.g., to defeat, a rhythm, to strike, to excel). Crossword constructors often leverage these various interpretations to create challenging and diverse clues.
How do I know which meaning of "beat" the crossword clue is referring to?
Context is key! Look at the number of letters, any intersecting letters you've already filled in, and the specific phrasing or any subtle hints in the clue. Sometimes, the clue might provide a modifier (e.g., "music beat" vs. "opponent beat").
Are there common crossword tricks related to the clue "beat"?
Yes, constructors might use idioms (e.g., "beat around the bush"), verb tenses (past tense "beat" vs. present "beats"), or even define it through an action (e.g., "drum sound" for DRUM). Always consider the literal and figurative meanings.