crossword clue does – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword clue does", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the potential answers, complete with explanations and categorized by letter count, ensuring you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue does" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DOES: Plural of a female deer; also refers to performing an action.
ACTS: Performs actions, as in 'he acts' (he does).
5 Letters
WORKS: Functions or operates, as in 'it works' (it does the job).
8 Letters
PERFORMS: Carries out or executes a task.
More About "crossword clue does"
The clue "crossword clue does" is a fascinating one because it plays on the multiple meanings of the word "does." In English, "does" can be the third-person singular present tense of the verb "to do," implying action, performance, or accomplishment. For example, "She does her homework." This interpretation often leads to answers like ACTS, PERFORMS, or WORKS.
However, "does" is also the plural form of "doe," which is a female deer. This biological meaning is frequently used in crosswords to trick solvers or to fit into animal-themed puzzles. Understanding both interpretations is key to successfully navigating this clue. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to determine which meaning is intended by the puzzle setter.
This dual nature of "does" makes it a rich source for clever crossword clues, requiring solvers to think broadly about word definitions and contexts. Keep an open mind and test both verbal and noun forms when encountering such ambiguous clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the grid against your potential answer. This is the simplest and most crucial step for ambiguous clues like "does."
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from crossing words are invaluable. They can quickly confirm or eliminate possible answers, guiding you towards the correct interpretation of the clue.
- Consider Synonyms and Homonyms: For tricky words like "does," think about all its possible synonyms (performs, acts, works) and homonyms (like "doze" - though less common for "does" clues). Sometimes the clue is a play on words.
- Identify the Part of Speech: Is "does" being used as a verb or a noun? This can narrow down your options significantly. If the clue implies action, think verbs. If it implies a creature, think nouns.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common interpretations of 'does' in crosswords?
The clue 'does' in crosswords most commonly refers to either the plural of 'doe' (a female deer) or to the third-person singular present tense of the verb 'to do,' implying action or performance. Context within the puzzle, such as surrounding letters or a numerical length hint, will guide you to the correct meaning.
How do I choose between different answers for 'does'?
To decide between possible answers for 'does,' first look at the number of letters required. Then, consider the surrounding completed letters in the crossword grid. If the clue is part of a theme, that might also offer a hint. For example, if other animal-related clues are present, 'DOES' as in deer is more likely. If it's action-oriented, 'ACTS' or 'PERFORMS' might fit better.
Are there other related crossword clues to 'does'?
Yes, clues related to 'does' might include synonyms for 'performs' (e.g., 'executes', 'carries out'), synonyms for 'works' (e.g., 'functions', 'operates'), or clues specifically for female deer (e.g., 'doe', 'hind'). Understanding the various semantic fields associated with 'does' can help you tackle similar clues.