exist crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "exist crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "exist crossword clue" by Letter Count
2 Letters
BE: To be present or to have reality.
IS: Third person singular present tense of 'be', signifying presence.
3 Letters
ARE: A plural form of the verb 'to be', indicating current existence.
4 Letters
LIVE: To be alive; to continue to have life.
5 Letters
ABIDE: To continue in a state or condition; to remain.
OCCUR: To happen; to take place; to be found or present.
7 Letters
SUBSIST: To maintain or support oneself; to continue to exist.
More About "exist crossword clue"
The word "exist" is a fundamental concept often used in crosswords to test a solver's grasp of basic verbs and their synonyms. It refers to the state of being real, current, or having objective reality. In puzzles, clues related to 'exist' can be deceptively simple, often looking for short, common words. However, depending on the number of letters and other intersecting clues, it can sometimes point to more nuanced synonyms that express a form of continuing to be or subsisting.
Common crossword setters leverage the versatility of "exist" by hinting at various tenses or aspects of being. For instance, while 'BE' is the infinitive, 'IS' and 'ARE' are present tense forms that frequently appear. Longer answers like 'SUBSIST' or 'ABIDE' add layers of meaning, suggesting not just existence, but persistent or sustained existence, challenging solvers to think beyond the most obvious definitions.
Understanding the context of the puzzle, such as whether it's a themed crossword or a general knowledge one, can also guide your choice of answer. A precise match for the letter count and the overall theme will invariably lead you to the correct solution for "exist" or any of its subtle variations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Always Check Letter Count First: Before anything else, verify the number of letters required. This instantly eliminates many possibilities and narrows down your search significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: For common words like 'exist', think broadly. Besides direct synonyms, consider phrases or verbs that imply existence, presence, or continuation.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: Use the letters from clues you've already solved. These intersecting letters are crucial for confirming or ruling out potential answers for tricky clues.
- Think About Verb Forms: Crosswords often use different tenses or forms of a verb. For 'exist', consider 'is', 'are', 'was', or 'will be' if the clue's tense suggests it.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'exist' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'exist' typically refers to being present, having reality, or continuing to live. It often leads to short, fundamental verbs like BE, IS, or ARE, but can also extend to synonyms like LIVE, ABIDE, or SUBSIST depending on the clue's nuance and letter count.
Are there common synonyms for 'exist' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms for 'exist' in crosswords include BE, LIVE, SUBSIST, ABIDE, OCCUR, and even forms of 'to be' such as IS or ARE. The specific answer depends heavily on the number of letters required and any surrounding clues.
How can I find answers for short crossword clues like 'exist'?
For short clues like 'exist', consider the most direct and common meanings first. Check the letter count immediately, as this significantly narrows down options. Think about common short verbs. If it’s still tricky, look at intersecting letters from solved clues to fill in the blanks, which often reveals the answer.