dropped the ball crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "dropped the ball crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "dropped the ball crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERR: To make a mistake or be incorrect.
6 Letters
FAILED: Did not succeed; fell short of expectations.
7 Letters
FUMBLED: Handled clumsily; made a mess of.
FLUBBED: Made a hash of; performed badly.
8 Letters
MESSEDUP: Made a blunder or poor job.
9 Letters
BLUNDERED: Made a serious or foolish mistake.
SLIPPEDUP: Made a careless error.
More About "dropped the ball crossword clue"
The idiom "dropped the ball" is a popular phrase in English, often used to describe a situation where someone has made a mistake, failed to perform a task, or neglected a responsibility, especially when it leads to negative consequences. Its origin is believed to come from sports, particularly American football or baseball, where literally dropping the ball can lead to a missed opportunity or a loss.
In the context of crosswords, clues based on idioms like "dropped the ball" test a solver's understanding of figurative language. The trick is to identify the core meaning – in this case, "to fail" or "to make a mistake" – and then find a synonym that fits the given letter count. These types of clues often require a broader vocabulary and an ability to think beyond literal definitions.
Mastering idiomatic clues is a significant step in becoming a proficient crossword solver. They frequently appear in various puzzles, from daily newspapers to more challenging cryptic crosswords, making it crucial to recognize their underlying meanings rather than being misled by their surface appearance.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Understand Idioms: When you see a clue that sounds like a common saying or idiom (like "dropped the ball"), try to determine its metaphorical meaning first. What does the phrase *really* imply?
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Once you have the core meaning of an idiomatic clue, brainstorm as many synonyms as possible for that core concept (e.g., for "failure" or "mistake").
- Check Letter Count & Crosses: Always use the given letter count and any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words as critical constraints. This will help you narrow down your list of possible synonyms to the one correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "dropped the ball" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "dropped the ball" refers to an idiom meaning to make a mistake, fail to fulfill a responsibility, or perform poorly. Answers will typically be synonyms for these actions or outcomes.
How can I find synonyms for "dropped the ball" when solving a crossword?
When encountering this clue, think of verbs that denote failure, error, or poor execution. Common synonyms include 'fail,' 'err,' 'blunder,' 'fumble,' or 'mess up.' Consider the letter count and surrounding letters you might already have.
Are idioms like "dropped the ball" common in crosswords?
Yes, idioms, common phrases, and idiomatic expressions are very frequently used as crossword clues. They require solvers to understand the figurative meaning rather than the literal one to find the correct answer.