cut down crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "cut down," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer for your puzzle.
Solutions for "cut down crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TRIM: To cut something in order to make it neat or tidy, often referring to hair, plants, or fabric.
FELL: Specifically, to cut down a tree or to cause someone to fall to the ground.
CHOP: To cut something into small pieces, typically with a knife or an axe.
5 Letters
SLASH: To cut something with a violent sweeping movement, often implying a reduction in price or numbers.
PRUNE: To trim a tree or bush by cutting away dead or overgrown branches, or to reduce something by removing superfluous parts.
6 Letters
REDUCE: To make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.
LESSEN: To diminish in size, amount, or intensity; to make less.
7 Letters
CURTAIL: To reduce in extent or quantity; to impose a restriction on.
SHORTEN: To make or become shorter in length or duration.
8 Letters
DECREASE: To make or become smaller or fewer in amount, extent, or intensity.
More About "cut down crossword clue"
"Cut down" is a versatile phrase that can stump even seasoned crossword solvers due to its multiple meanings. In its most literal sense, it refers to felling a tree or physically reducing the size of an object. However, in crosswords, it frequently appears metaphorically, implying a reduction in quantity, intensity, or duration. This broad applicability means you'll often see a range of synonyms like 'reduce,' 'lessen,' 'trim,' or 'curtail' as possible answers.
The key to solving this clue lies in context. Is the puzzle's theme about gardening? Then 'prune' or 'fell' might be appropriate. Is it about economics or budgeting? Then 'reduce' or 'decrease' would fit better. Always consider the surrounding clues and the overall tone of the puzzle to narrow down the possibilities. The length of the answer is, of course, your primary guide, but understanding the nuances of the phrase will lead you to the exact solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the required letter count in the grid. This is your most crucial hint for "cut down" clues, as multiple synonyms exist for various lengths.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already solved from intersecting words. Even one or two letters can significantly narrow down the list of possibilities for "cut down."
- Consider the Clue's Tone: Pay attention to the overall tone or theme of the puzzle. Is it playful, formal, or technical? This can help you decide between synonyms like 'chop' (more informal) versus 'decrease' (more formal).
- Think of Phrasal Verbs: "Cut down" itself is a phrasal verb. Sometimes, the answer might be another phrasal verb or a word that directly relates to one of its specific uses (e.g., cutting down on expenses).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "cut down" mean in a crossword puzzle context?
"Cut down" can have various meanings in crosswords, often related to reducing something (like expenses or a story), or physically felling an object (like a tree). The exact meaning depends on the specific puzzle and required word length.
Why are there so many answers for "cut down crossword clue"?
Crossword clues, especially common phrases like "cut down," are often rich with synonyms. Depending on the nuance the puzzle setter intends (e.g., to diminish, to physically fell, to shorten), different words will fit. This variety also allows for different letter counts to be used.
How do I choose the correct answer for "cut down"?
To pinpoint the correct answer for "cut down," first consider the number of letters required. Then, look at any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Finally, think about the broader context of the puzzle – is it about finance, gardening, or something else?