crossword clue discourage – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "discourage," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "crossword clue discourage" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DETER: To prevent or turn away from a course of action, often by instilling doubt or fear.
DAUNT: To make someone feel intimidated or apprehensive, thereby diminishing their courage.
6 Letters
HINDER: To create difficulties for someone or something, resulting in delay or obstruction; to impede.
8 Letters
DISSUADE: To persuade someone not to take a particular course of action.
10 Letters
DEMORALIZE: To cause (someone) to lose confidence or hope; to dishearten.
More About "crossword clue discourage"
The word "discourage" implies an action taken to lessen someone's confidence, enthusiasm, or hope, or to prevent an action from happening. In the context of crosswords, clues related to "discourage" often point to verbs that convey a sense of hindrance, deterrence, or dampening of spirits. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer among multiple possibilities.
Crossword constructors love words like "discourage" because they have several synonyms with varying lengths, providing flexibility in puzzle design. Depending on the grid and intersecting words, the answer could be a direct synonym or a word describing the effect of discouraging someone or something. Always consider the context of the puzzle, including whether the clue asks for an active verb or a descriptive adjective related to the state of being discouraged.
Exploring the etymology of related words can also sometimes provide an edge. For instance, "deter" comes from Latin 'deterrere' meaning 'to frighten off,' aligning perfectly with the idea of discouraging action through fear. By thinking broadly about the concept and its common linguistic associates, you'll improve your chances of solving even the trickiest clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: Is "discourage" used as a verb, noun, or adjective in the context of the full clue? This can significantly narrow down potential answers. For example, if it implies an action, look for verbs.
- Consider Word Length: Always match the number of letters provided in the grid. If you have several possible answers for "discourage," the letter count is your first filter.
- Check Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by using letters from already solved intersecting clues. If your chosen answer doesn't fit, it's time to try another synonym.
- Think of Figurative Meanings: Some clues use words in a non-literal sense. "Discourage" might refer to something that *naturally* slows down or hinders, not just a deliberate act.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find synonyms for 'discourage' to help with crosswords?
You can use a thesaurus or an online synonym dictionary. Common synonyms for 'discourage' that appear in crosswords include deter, daunt, hinder, dissuade, and demoralize. Think about the specific nuance of the clue and the number of letters required.
What if multiple answers fit the clue 'discourage' for a specific length?
If multiple words fit a clue for the same letter count, check the intersecting letters from other solved clues. This will help you narrow down the possibilities to the one correct answer for your puzzle. Sometimes, context from the puzzle's theme can also provide hints.
Why do crossword clues sometimes have multiple answers for the same word?
Many English words have multiple synonyms or can be interpreted in slightly different ways. Crossword constructors often choose clues that allow for these variations to increase the challenge. Our site provides all common answers to help you cover all possibilities.