drift apart crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "drift apart" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "drift apart crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WIDEN: To become wider or cause to become wider; often implies a gap or distance increasing between things or people.
SPLIT: To divide or cause to divide into two or more parts; often used when a group or relationship breaks into separate entities.
6 Letters
DIVIDE: To separate into parts or sections; can refer to physical separation or a schism in opinions or relationships.
8 Letters
ESTRANGE: To cause someone to be no longer on friendly terms with someone; specifically refers to emotional separation in relationships.
ALIENATE: To cause someone to feel isolated or estranged; similar to estrange but can imply a broader sense of removal or unfriendliness.
SEPARATE: To cause to move or be apart; a general term for becoming distinct or disconnected.
10 Letters
DISCONNECT: To break the connection of or between; can be physical or emotional.
More About "drift apart crossword clue"
The clue "drift apart" often appears in crosswords, challenging solvers to think about various forms of separation or increasing distance. This can refer to physical objects moving away from each other, but more commonly, it implies a decline in closeness or communication between people, leading to a weakening of relationships.
Understanding the nuances of the phrase is key. While words like "separate" or "divide" might suggest a more abrupt or intentional split, "drift apart" evokes a gradual, perhaps unintentional, process of divergence. This subtlety is often what crossword setters use to differentiate between similar-meaning words, requiring solvers to consider the precise connotations.
When you encounter this clue, always check the number of letters first, as this will immediately narrow down your options. Then, look at any intersecting letters or related clues in the puzzle grid. Contextual clues, such as whether the puzzle is about human emotions, physics, or general actions, can also guide you to the most fitting answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always start by noting the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the single most important filtering step.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the same as the clue, or sometimes, the opposite if the clue is phrased negatively. For "drift apart," consider terms of union or closeness to fully understand its opposite.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: Don't try to solve a single clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are your best friends in confirming or eliminating potential answers.
- Think of Figurative Meanings: Crossword clues often use words figuratively. "Drift apart" might not always be literal movement, but rather emotional distance.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "drift apart" mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, "drift apart" typically refers to something or someone becoming less close, either physically or emotionally. Common answers relate to separation, estrangement, or widening gaps.
Are there common synonyms for "drift apart" used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include ESTRANGE, ALIENATE, SEPARATE, DIVIDE, WIDEN, and SPLIT. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required by the puzzle.
How do I choose the correct answer when multiple words fit "drift apart"?
To choose the correct answer, consider the exact number of letters required by the puzzle. Also, look at surrounding letters and cross-referenced clues, as these will confirm the right choice. The specific context of the puzzle (e.g., relationships versus physical objects) can also be a helpful hint.