dress down crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a clue like "dress down" and need a quick solution, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "dress down crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SCOLD: To rebuke or criticize someone angrily.
CHIDE: To express disapproval of or reproach gently.
6 Letters
REBUKE: To express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions.
BERATE: To scold or criticize (someone) angrily.
7 Letters
LECTURE: To give an admonitory or critical speech to (someone).
8 Letters
ADMONISH: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
9 Letters
REPRIMAND: A formal expression of disapproval. (Often used as a verb: to reprimand someone).
CRITICIZE: To indicate the faults of (someone or something) in a disapproving way.
More About "dress down crossword"
"Dress down" is a classic example of a crossword clue that plays on dual meanings. While in common parlance it often refers to wearing informal attire, in the world of crosswords, it almost exclusively points to the act of scolding or reprimanding someone. This double-entendre is a common tactic used by puzzle setters to mislead solvers, making it crucial to consider less obvious interpretations of everyday phrases.
When you encounter "dress down" in a puzzle, your first thought should typically be about synonyms for telling someone off, admonishing, or criticizing. The length of the answer slots will usually guide you to the specific word needed, whether it's a shorter word like SCOLD or CHIDE, or a longer one such as REPRIMAND or ADMONISH. Always keep an open mind to the less literal meanings when solving crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Alternative Meanings: Many crossword clues, like "dress down," rely on a word's lesser-known or secondary definitions. Always think beyond the most common usage.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. It immediately narrows down the possibilities and often eliminates ambiguous answers.
- Use Intersecting Words: Fill in answers from clues that are easier or more certain first. These letters will then serve as valuable hints for the trickier clues, like "dress down," helping you confirm your guesses.
- Think Synonyms for Discipline: When "dress down" appears, mentally list words related to scolding, reprimanding, or correcting. This focus can quickly lead you to the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "dress down" mean in a crossword clue?
In the context of crosswords, "dress down" almost always refers to the act of scolding, reprimanding, or admonishing someone. It's a common trick clue, as its everyday meaning often relates to dressing informally.
Are there multiple meanings for "dress down" that apply to crosswords?
While "dress down" has a colloquial meaning of dressing casually, in crosswords, it predominantly points towards synonyms for rebuke or criticize. Rarely will a crossword clue use it for informal attire; if it does, the surrounding clues or puzzle theme would likely indicate that.
How can I be sure I have the correct "dress down" answer?
The best way to confirm is by checking the letter count provided by the puzzle and seeing if it matches one of the common answers for scolding (e.g., SCOLD, REBUKE, CHIDE). Also, verify your answer with intersecting words from other clues to ensure consistency.