crossword clue trace – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "crossword clue trace," categorized by their letter count. Let's get that puzzle finished!
Solutions for "crossword clue trace" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MARK: A visible sign or line, often left behind.
5 Letters
PRINT: An impression or mark made on a surface.
6 Letters
FOLLOW: To go after or along a path, to trace a route.
7 Letters
VESTIGE: A small amount of something that remains from a larger amount or from the past, a trace.
8 Letters
FOOTSTEP: A sound or mark made by a foot in walking, a trace of passage.
More About "crossword clue trace"
"Trace" is a frequently encountered and often tricky clue in crosswords due to its multiple meanings and usages, both as a noun and a verb. As a noun, it can refer to a mark, sign, or evidence left behind, such as a "trace of dust" or a "trace of an ancient civilization." It can also denote a very small amount, as in "a trace of regret." This duality often leads to answers like MARK, PRINT, or VESTIGE.
When used as a verb, "trace" implies an action. It can mean to follow a course or path, as in "trace the river to its source" (leading to answers like FOLLOW or TRACK). It can also mean to copy a drawing by drawing over its lines on a transparent sheet (leading to answers like COPY or DRAW). Understanding the specific context within the puzzle is key to discerning which meaning the constructor intends, making "trace" a true test of a solver's vocabulary and contextual reasoning.
The beauty of such polysemous words in crosswords lies in their ability to offer creative and sometimes misleading clues, challenging solvers to think outside the box. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities when facing a clue like "trace."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Type: For clues like "trace" that can be both nouns and verbs, determine what part of speech the answer needs to be. Does the answer describe a thing or an action?
- Consider Synonyms for Each Meaning: List out all possible synonyms for "trace" in its different contexts (e.g., mark, hint, follow, track, copy, draw). This broadens your pool of potential answers.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. Even one correct letter can eliminate many possibilities and confirm which meaning of "trace" is intended.
- Think About Common Crossword Conventions: Some constructors have favorite types of clues or wordplay. Pay attention to the puzzle's overall style for subtle hints.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common meanings of "trace" in crossword puzzles?
In crosswords, 'trace' is highly versatile. It can mean a mark, a sign, a slight amount (noun), or to follow, copy, or find a course (verb). The context of other clues and the answer length are crucial for disambiguation.
How can I determine if "trace" is used as a noun or a verb in the clue?
Look at the surrounding clues and the typical structure of the crossword. If the clue implies an action (e.g., 'Trace a path'), it's likely a verb. If it suggests an object or remnant (e.g., 'A trace of history'), it's probably a noun. Also, consider if the answer word itself is typically a noun or a verb.
Are there other words similar to 'trace' that have multiple meanings in crosswords?
Yes, many words have multiple meanings that crossword constructors love to exploit. Examples include 'bank' (river bank or financial institution), 'fall' (autumn or to drop), 'light' (illumination or not heavy), and 'park' (to stop a car or a green space). Always be prepared for multiple interpretations of common words.