crossword clue delay – All Crossword Answers

Q: What is the best way to find a crossword answer for 'delay'?

Start by considering the number of letters required. Common answers for 'delay' include STALL, PAUSE, DEFER, HOLDUP, or POSTPONE. Also, check surrounding letters for context clues that might narrow down the options in your puzzle grid.

Q: Are there different types of 'delay' in crosswords?

Yes, 'delay' can refer to a physical stoppage (like a PAUSE), a deliberate act of obstruction (like STALL or HINDER), or rescheduling something for later (like DEFER or POSTPONE). The specific nuance in the clue's wording will guide you to the precise answer.

Q: How can I improve my speed in solving 'delay' clues?

Familiarize yourself with a wide range of synonyms for 'delay' across various word lengths. Practice recognizing wordplay, as 'delay' might sometimes be clued metaphorically or with a pun. The more exposure you have to these types of clues, the quicker you'll recall the correct answers.

Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving the trickiest crossword clues! On this page, you'll find comprehensive solutions and detailed explanations for the clue "delay", helping you complete your puzzle with ease and expand your crossword vocabulary. We provide answers across various letter counts to ensure you find exactly what you need, from short common terms to longer, more specific synonyms.

Solutions for "crossword clue delay" by Letter Count

5 Letters

STALL: To intentionally cause a delay, often to gain time or avoid action, as in "stall for time."

PAUSE: A temporary stop or rest, implying a brief interruption rather than a prolonged one.

DEFER: To put off (an action or event) to a later time; postpone, like deferring a payment.

6 Letters

HOLDUP: An instance of causing a delay or being delayed, often unforeseen, such as a traffic holdup.

HINDER: To create difficulties for (someone or something), resulting in slowed progress or delay.

8 Letters

POSTPONE: To arrange for something to take place at a time later than that first scheduled, a very common synonym for delay.

13 Letters

PROCRASTINATE: To delay or postpone action; put off doing something habitually or intentionally, often due to reluctance.

More About "crossword clue delay"

The concept of "delay" is a common and versatile one in crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of synonyms. Clues for "delay" can range from simple definitions to more nuanced wordplay, requiring you to consider the context of the puzzle. It's not just about a simple wait; it can involve intentional obstruction, a temporary halt, or a rescheduling of events, making it a rich area for clever clueing.

When you encounter "delay" in a crossword, think about the different ways something can be held back. Is it a person delaying an action (e.g., procrastinate, defer), an object causing a slowdown (e.g., hindrance, holdup), or a natural pause in an activity (e.g., intermission, break)? The surrounding letters and the clue's specific phrasing are your best friends in narrowing down the possibilities to the perfect fit.

Mastering clues like "delay" helps build a strong foundation for tackling more complex crosswords, as many other concepts in puzzles relate to time, action, and impedance. Recognizing the subtle differences between synonyms is key to becoming a proficient solver and helps you anticipate the setter's intentions, whether they are looking for a direct synonym or a more abstract interpretation.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Word Count: Always start by checking the number of letters the answer requires. This immediately narrows down your options significantly for clues like "delay" and helps filter out unsuitable answers quickly.
Consider Nuances: "Delay" has many synonyms, each with a slightly different meaning (e.g., intentional vs. accidental, temporary vs. indefinite). Pay close attention to any subtle hints or specific verbs in the clue that suggest a particular nuance.
Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: For longer "delay" answers like PROCRASTINATE, knowing common prefixes (like PRO- or POST-) or suffixes can help you deduce parts of the word even if you don't know the full answer immediately, leveraging your existing vocabulary.
Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: Use letters from intersecting words to confirm your "delay" answer. Sometimes, a single confirmed letter from a crossing word is all you need to unlock the whole word and ensure its correctness.

For more advice and general strategies that apply to a wide range of crossword challenges, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to find a crossword answer for 'delay'?

Start by considering the number of letters required for the answer. Common answers for 'delay' often include STALL, PAUSE, DEFER, HOLDUP, or POSTPONE. Additionally, always check the letters that intersect from other clues, as these can provide crucial hints and help confirm your solution.

Are there different types of 'delay' in crosswords?

Yes, 'delay' can be clued in various ways. It might refer to a physical stoppage (like a PAUSE), a deliberate act of obstruction (like STALL or HINDER), or rescheduling something for later (like DEFER or POSTPONE). The specific nuance in the clue's phrasing is key to selecting the correct synonym.

How can I improve my speed in solving 'delay' clues?

To improve, familiarize yourself with a broad range of synonyms for 'delay' across various word lengths. Practice recognizing wordplay, as 'delay' might sometimes be clued metaphorically, through puns, or with a specific context. The more exposure you have to these clue types, the quicker you'll recall the appropriate answers.