defraud crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on 'defraud crossword clue'? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "defraud crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CON: To swindle or deceive (someone) out of money or possessions.
4 Letters
BILK: To obtain or withhold money from (someone) by deceit or without justification; cheat or defraud.
DUPE: To deceive or trick (someone).
GULL: To trick or deceive (someone).
5 Letters
CHEAT: To act dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage, especially in a game or examination.
6 Letters
FLEECE: To obtain a great deal of money from (someone), typically by overcharging or swindling them.
7 Letters
SWINDLE: To use deception to deprive (someone) of money or possessions.
More About "defraud crossword clue"
The term "defraud" carries a strong connotation of deception and illegal financial gain. In crosswords, clues related to "defraud" often test your vocabulary of synonyms for various forms of trickery, especially those involving money. Understanding the subtle differences between words like "cheat," "swindle," and "bilk" can be crucial for selecting the correct answer when multiple options fit the letter count.
Crossword setters might use "defraud" directly, or they might hint at the concept with phrases like "take advantage of," "deceive for gain," or "rip off." Always consider the context provided by other intersecting words, as this is often the key to unlocking the exact term the puzzle designer had in mind. Recognizing the theme of dishonesty and financial manipulation will guide you to the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly for clues like "defraud."
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For common actions like defrauding, make a mental list of all possible synonyms (e.g., cheat, swindle, con, dupe, fleece, bilk). Then see which ones fit the given length.
- Consider Nuances: Some synonyms might have slightly different connotations (e.g., "fleece" implies large sums, "con" implies a confidence trick). The overall theme of the puzzle or other clues might hint at these nuances.
- Look for Wordplay: Sometimes, clues for "defraud" might involve wordplay or be indirect. For example, a clue might be "Con job" or "Trick for cash." Be open to non-literal interpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'defraud' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'defraud' typically refers to cheating, swindling, or deceiving someone to gain an unfair advantage, often financially. Crossword setters frequently use synonyms like 'CHEAT', 'SWINDLE', 'BILK', or 'DUPE' as answers.
How do I find the right answer for 'defraud' in a crossword?
To solve clues like 'defraud', first look at the number of letters provided in the grid. Then consider common synonyms for 'defraud' that match that length, such as 'CON' (3 letters), 'BILK' (4 letters), 'CHEAT' (5 letters), 'FLEECE' (6 letters), or 'SWINDLE' (7 letters). Context from intersecting clues is also crucial in narrowing down the possibilities.
Are there different types of 'defraud' clues?
Yes, 'defraud' clues can vary. They might be straightforward synonyms, or they could involve more subtle wordplay or indirect references. For instance, a clue might be 'Con artist's goal' or 'Deceive for money'. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings, and a wide range of synonyms for the core concept of deception or illegal gain.