What does 'nullify' mean in the context of crosswords?

In crosswords, 'nullify' refers to making something void, ineffective, or canceling it out. Answers can range from legal terms like ANNUL or REPEAL to more general synonyms like CANCEL or NEGATE, depending on the nuance and letter count required.

How do I choose between multiple answers for a clue like 'nullify'?

The key is to match the number of letters of the answer to the available spaces in your puzzle. Also, consider any cross-referencing letters you already have from intersecting words. Sometimes, the clue might have a subtle hint (e.g., 'nullify a law' might point to REPEAL) that helps narrow it down.

Are there common prefixes or suffixes for 'nullify' related answers?

Words related to nullifying often involve Latin roots. For example, 'AN-' (as in ANNUL) or 'RE-' (as in REPEAL, REVOKE). Crossword setters often use these common prefixes, so if you see 'RE----' for a nullify clue, think of REVOKE or REPEAL.

crossword clue nullify – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! This page provides comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "nullify," broken down by letter count, along with detailed explanations and helpful tips to conquer your puzzle.

Solutions for "crossword clue nullify" by Letter Count

4 Letters

VOID: To make empty or legally invalid.

VETO: To reject a decision or proposal, effectively nullifying it.

5 Letters

ANNUL: To declare an official agreement, decision, or result invalid.

QUASH: To reject or void, especially by legal procedure.

6 Letters

CANCEL: To call off or stop something planned or in progress.

NEGATE: To make ineffective; to nullify. Also means to deny the existence or truth of something.

REPEAL: To revoke or annul (a law or act), often through legislative means.

REVOKE: To officially cancel a right, privilege, or contract.

7 Letters

ABOLISH: To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution.

NULLIFY: To make legally null and void; invalidate. Sometimes the clue is the answer itself!

10 Letters

INVALIDATE: To make an argument, statement, or theory unsound or invalid; to officially cancel or revoke something.

More About "crossword clue nullify"

"Nullify" is a versatile word in crosswords, often appearing in clues that require an answer related to cancellation, invalidation, or abolition. Its roots are in the Latin "nullus," meaning "none," which directly points to the idea of reducing something to nothing or making it ineffective. This means you might encounter answers from legal jargon, like 'ANNUL' or 'REPEAL', to more general actions like 'CANCEL' or 'NEGATE'.

The specific context of the clue, combined with the number of letters provided in the puzzle, is crucial for selecting the correct answer. For example, a clue hinting at a law might lead to 'REPEAL,' while a general act of cancellation could be 'CANCEL.' Paying attention to these subtle differences will significantly improve your solving speed and accuracy for 'nullify' and similar clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Check Letter Count First: Always match the known letter count to the potential answers. This is your primary filter.
Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like 'nullify,' think of its direct synonyms and even antonyms that might be clued as 'make valid' or 'affirm' to train your brain on related concepts.
Look for Contextual Clues: Does the clue specify 'nullify a contract,' 'nullify a vote,' or 'nullify an argument'? These details often point to specific answers like ANNUL, VETO, or NEGATE respectively.
Use Cross-References: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them to narrow down the possibilities for 'nullify.' It's often the quickest way to confirm an answer.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common answers for 'nullify' in crosswords?

Some of the most common answers include VOID, ANNUL, CANCEL, and NEGATE due to their frequent appearance across various puzzle difficulties and lengths.

Can 'nullify' itself be the answer to the clue 'nullify'?

Yes, absolutely! Crossword constructors sometimes use a word as its own clue, especially if it's a direct definition or an example of itself. Always consider the clue word as a potential answer if it fits the letter count.

Are there any specific types of puzzles where 'nullify' answers appear more often?

'Nullify' and its synonyms are quite common in both daily and themed crosswords. They tend to appear more frequently in puzzles that incorporate legal, political, or administrative themes, where actions of making things void or ineffective are relevant.