hesitates crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "hesitates" clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently. Find your answer below, along with helpful explanations.
Solutions for "hesitates crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WAITS: To stay in a place or remain inactive until an expected event happens, often implying a moment of indecision.
BALKS: To be unwilling to accept an idea or undertaking, showing hesitation or refusal.
6 Letters
PAUSES: To make a temporary stop or delay an action, directly meaning to hesitate.
DEMURS: To raise doubts or objections or show reluctance, indicating hesitation before proceeding.
STALLS: To stop or cause to stop making progress, often due to hesitation or an issue.
7 Letters
FALTERS: To lose strength or momentum, or to speak or move hesitantly.
PONDERS: To think about something carefully, especially before making a decision, which can imply hesitation.
10 Letters
VACILLATES: To alternate or waver between different opinions or actions; be indecisive, a strong form of hesitation.
More About "hesitates crossword clue"
"Hesitates" is a common and versatile crossword clue that can point to a variety of answers depending on the nuance and the required letter count. It typically refers to a momentary pause, a show of reluctance, or indecision before taking action or making a statement. Crossword setters often use synonyms that convey delay, uncertainty, or holding back.
Understanding the context of the puzzle, such as whether it's a daily cryptic or a themed puzzle, can sometimes help narrow down the possibilities. For instance, in a themed puzzle about human emotions, "hesitates" might lean towards answers related to fear or shyness, whereas in a more general puzzle, it could simply mean to stop briefly.
Always consider the other crossing words. Even a single letter from an intersecting answer can unlock the correct solution for "hesitates" by eliminating incorrect options. Keep an open mind to different synonyms and their specific connotations to solve this frequently appearing clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always start by matching the number of letters. This is the single most important piece of information for any crossword clue.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "hesitates," think broadly about all its synonyms (pauses, waits, demurs, falters) and sometimes even antonyms if the clue suggests an opposite.
- Look for Common Suffixes/Prefixes: If you have a few letters, consider common verb endings (e.g., -S for present tense verbs) or prefixes that might fit.
- Use Crossing Letters: The most powerful tool! Even one confirmed letter from an intersecting word can drastically reduce the number of possible answers for "hesitates."
- Think About Context: Is the clue part of a themed puzzle? Does it imply a specific field (e.g., music, finance)? The context can often hint at the type of word needed.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hesitates' mean in a crossword context?
'Hesitates' typically refers to pausing, wavering, or showing reluctance before acting or speaking. Common crossword answers include synonyms like PAUSES, WAITS, DEMURS, or STALLS.
How can I determine the length of the 'hesitates' answer?
The length of the answer is crucial! Look at the number provided in parentheses next to the clue in your crossword puzzle. For example, 'hesitates (6)' means you're looking for a six-letter word like PAUSES or DEMURS.
Are there common tricks for clues like 'hesitates'?
Often, clues for 'hesitates' will point to synonyms that imply a lack of immediate action or a moment of indecision. Sometimes, the answer might be a less common synonym or a verb that implies holding back, so consider all possible synonyms for the given word length.