destroy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling a crossword puzzle and stuck on the clue 'destroy', you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "destroy crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To damage or spoil to a certain extent; impair the appearance of.
4 Letters
RUIN: To reduce to a state of decay, collapse, or disintegration; wreck.
RAZE: To completely destroy a building, town, or other settlement.
5 Letters
ERASE: To rub or scrape out (words or marks); obliterate.
WRECK: To cause the destruction or collapse of (something).
SMASH: To break (something) into pieces suddenly and violently.
6 Letters
RAVAGE: To cause severe and extensive damage to.
8 Letters
DEMOLISH: To completely destroy a building or structure; pull or knock down.
9 Letters
DEVASTATE: To cause severe and overwhelming damage to (something); lay waste to.
10 Letters
ANNIHILATE: To destroy utterly; obliterate.
More About "destroy crossword clue"
The clue "destroy" is a classic in crosswords due to its versatility and the vast array of synonyms it encompasses. Depending on the context of the puzzle, 'destroy' could refer to physical annihilation, like demolishing a building, or more abstract forms of destruction, such as spoiling a reputation or undoing a plan. Crossword setters often use 'destroy' to test a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to discern subtle semantic differences.
When encountering this clue, consider the specific nuances. Is it about a complete and utter wipeout (annihilate), a gradual deterioration (ruin), or a specific act of demolition (raze)? The surrounding clues and the overall theme of the puzzle can often provide invaluable hints. Don't be afraid to think broadly about what 'destroy' could imply.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by noting the number of boxes available for the answer. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and guides your thought process.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by solved intersecting clues are your best friends. They can quickly confirm or deny a potential answer for 'destroy'.
- Consider Nuances and Context: Think beyond the literal meaning. Does the clue hint at a specific type of destruction (e.g., "destroy a file" vs. "destroy a city")? Pay attention to any qualifiers or specific wording that might point to a unique synonym.
- Look for Common Crossword Traps: Sometimes, "destroy" might be clued in an unexpected way, perhaps as an anagram indicator, a pun, or part of a phrase. Keep an open mind for creative wordplay.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the clue 'destroy' have so many possible answers in crosswords?
The word 'destroy' is a broad term with many synonyms, each carrying slightly different nuances (e.g., to ruin, obliterate, demolish, or impair). Crossword setters leverage this rich vocabulary to create diverse clues. The specific context of the puzzle, the number of letters in the answer, and crossing letters are key to finding the exact fit.
How can I narrow down the options for a 'destroy' clue?
To narrow down the possibilities, always start by checking the number of letters the answer requires. Then, look at any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Consider the specific tone or context of the clue itself – is it talking about physical destruction (like 'demolish') or something more abstract (like 'mar' a reputation)? Also, think about common crossword short-forms or unusual synonyms.
Are there common wordplay elements associated with 'destroy' clues?
Yes, 'destroy' clues can often involve wordplay. Look out for anagrams where letters are 'destroyed' and rearranged, or hidden words where 'destroy' might hint that part of the clue itself contains the answer. Sometimes, a clue might refer to a specific method of destruction, like 'axe' for 'destroy' (as in reduce).