handles crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your definitive source for solving those tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find all possible answers and detailed explanations for the clue "handles crossword clue". Get quick help and insightful context to complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "handles crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
USES: To employ or operate something, such as 'handles a tool'.
RUNS: To manage or operate a business or organization, as in 'handles the company operations'.
5 Letters
GRIPS: To hold firmly with the hand, like 'handles a tennis racket'.
6 Letters
WIELDS: To hold and use (a weapon or tool), often with skill, e.g., 'handles a sword'.
7 Letters
MANAGES: To be in charge of or control; to succeed in doing something, as in 'handles the team effectively'.
TACKLES: To deal with (a problem or task), as in 'handles difficult situations'.
8 Letters
OPERATES: To control the functioning of a machine, process, or system, such as 'handles heavy machinery'.
More About "handles crossword clue"
The clue "handles" is a classic example of a versatile verb in crosswords, often leading to multiple solutions depending on the context and the number of letters. Its meaning can range from physically grasping an object to managing a complex situation or even operating machinery. This broad semantic scope makes it a favorite among crossword setters for creating challenging yet fair clues.
When you encounter "handles" in a puzzle, consider the subtle nuances. Is it about dexterity (like handling a delicate instrument), authority (handling a department), or perhaps dealing with a challenge (handling pressure)? The surrounding clues and the overall theme of the crossword can often provide vital hints to determine the precise meaning intended by the setter.
Our comprehensive list above provides the most common and likely answers, broken down by letter count, along with a brief explanation to guide you. Use this resource to quickly identify the solution that fits your puzzle, ensuring you move forward efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: "Handles" can be a verb (he handles the ball) or a noun (door handles). Most commonly, in clues, it's a verb, but always double-check if the answer might be a plural noun for an object.
- Consider Synonyms for "Manage" or "Operate": Many answers for "handles" revolve around management or operation. Think of words like 'runs', 'directs', 'operates', 'controls', or 'governs'.
- Think About Physical Interaction: Some answers relate to grasping or manipulating. Words like 'grips', 'holds', 'wields', or 'touches' might be relevant depending on the exact context.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The most crucial tip for any crossword. If you have a few letters from intersecting words, it significantly narrows down the possibilities for "handles."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the clue 'handles' have so many different answers?
The clue 'handles' is versatile because it can refer to physical gripping, managing a situation, operating machinery, or even dealing with emotions. This broad semantic range allows for many valid answers depending on the crossword's specific context and the required letter count.
What should I consider when a crossword clue like 'handles' appears?
When encountering a multi-meaning clue like 'handles,' always check the intersecting letters first. Then, consider the number of letters required and the overall theme of the puzzle. Think about synonyms for 'manage,' 'grip,' 'operate,' 'deal with,' and 'control' to narrow down possibilities.
Are there common suffixes or prefixes related to 'handles' in crosswords?
While not direct suffixes or prefixes to 'handles' itself, related concepts often appear. For instance, 'ER' could suffix an answer like 'GRIPPER' if the clue implies someone who handles. Look for clues that might suggest a noun derived from the verb 'to handle', or phrasal verbs that include 'handle' in their meaning.