happen to crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "happen to", you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below you'll find solutions organized by letter count, ensuring you get the perfect fit every time.
Solutions for "happen to crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
OCCUR: To take place or happen; to be found or met with.
6 Letters
BEFALL: To happen to (someone); to come about as if by fate.
CHANCE: To happen by luck or accident; to encounter unexpectedly.
8 Letters
COMEUPON: To find or meet by chance or unexpectedly.
More About "happen to crossword clue"
The clue "happen to" is a versatile phrase in crosswords, often requiring solvers to consider a range of synonyms that convey various nuances of occurrence or encounter. Depending on the puzzle's context, "happen to" could refer to a simple event transpiring, an unexpected meeting, or even a fated circumstance. Puzzle constructors love such clues because they can lead to multiple valid answers, challenging the solver to use intersecting letters and the overall theme of the puzzle to pinpoint the exact word.
For instance, while 'OCCUR' implies a general event, 'BEFALL' often suggests something happening to a person, sometimes with a negative connotation. 'CHANCE' or 'COMEUPON' point towards an accidental discovery or encounter. Understanding these subtle differences is key to mastering clues like 'happen to'. Always cross-reference with surrounding words and clues to confirm your selection, ensuring it fits both grammatically and semantically within the grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "happen to," consider if the clue implies a general occurrence, an unexpected event, or an encounter. Each nuance points to different synonyms.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the known letter count. This is your most reliable filter for potential answers.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't guess in isolation. Any letters you've already filled from intersecting clues are crucial for confirming or eliminating possibilities.
- Think of Phrasal Verbs: "Happen to" can sometimes lead to phrasal verbs. Be open to answers that combine common words like "COME UPON" or "FALL UPON".
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a "happen to" clue tricky in crosswords?
The phrase "happen to" can have several subtle meanings, from a simple occurrence to an unexpected encounter or even a fated event. This nuance requires solvers to consider context and surrounding letters carefully, as many synonyms could fit superficially.
Are there common synonyms for 'happen to' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms often include OCCUR, BEFALL, CHANCE, STRIKE (as in 'it struck me'), and COME UPON. The specific answer will depend on the letter count and how the clue is phrased.
How do I narrow down answers for 'happen to' clues?
Always start by checking the number of letters required. Then, look at any intersecting letters you already have. Consider the specific tone of the clue – is it about a random occurrence, a destiny, or simply an event taking place? This can help distinguish between similar words like 'OCCUR' and 'BEFALL'.