hold out crossword – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "hold out" in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Find all possible solutions and explanations here, helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "hold out crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LAST: To continue for a specified period of time; to remain in being. Often used when something continues despite difficulties, i.e., "how long can they last?"
6 Letters
RESIST: To withstand the action or effect of; to refuse to give in to. This directly relates to the idea of "holding out" against pressure or attack.
ENDURE: To suffer patiently; to remain in existence; to last. This answer perfectly encapsulates the meaning of persevering or lasting through hardship.
7 Letters
PERSIST: To continue steadfastly or obstinately in a course of action or a state in spite of difficulty or opposition. This implies a prolonged "holding out" or refusal to yield.
More About "hold out crossword"
"Hold out" is a versatile phrase that often appears in crosswords, challenging solvers to consider its various connotations. Primarily, it points towards the concept of resistance, endurance, or perseverance. When you "hold out," you're either refusing to succumb to pressure, continuing to exist despite adversity, or maintaining a position firmly.
The beauty of such a clue lies in its ability to lead to multiple valid answers, depending on the specific nuance the puzzle creator intends. Understanding these subtle differences – between simply lasting (LAST), bearing up under strain (ENDURE), actively refusing (RESIST), or stubbornly continuing (PERSIST) – is key to selecting the correct word for your grid.
Consider the context of the larger puzzle. Does it lean towards a military theme, suggesting resistance? Or perhaps a more philosophical tone, hinting at endurance? The surrounding clues and solved letters can often provide the necessary hints to narrow down the possibilities for "hold out."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of available squares in the grid against your potential answer. For "hold out," knowing if you need a 4-letter or 7-letter word immediately cuts down possibilities.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that mean the opposite of "holding out" (e.g., surrendering, yielding) to help brainstorm synonyms that fit the "hold out" meaning.
- Look for Common Crossword Patterns: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords. If an answer like RESIST or ENDURE fits the length, it's often a strong candidate due to its common usage in puzzles.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you're stuck, try solving intersecting clues first. The letters from those answers will provide crucial starting points for "hold out."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "hold out" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "hold out" typically refers to resisting, enduring, or persevering. It can imply a refusal to yield, to withstand pressure, or a continuation over time despite challenges.
How do I determine the correct length for "hold out" answers?
The clue itself doesn't specify length. You'd determine the answer length based on the number of available squares in the crossword grid. Common lengths for "hold out" include 4 letters (like LAST), 6 letters (like RESIST or ENDURE), or 7 letters (like PERSIST).
Are there other less common meanings for "hold out" that might appear in crosswords?
While less common for a direct synonym clue, "hold out" can sometimes mean to offer something (e.g., "hold out hope" or "hold out a hand"). However, for a straightforward crossword clue, the primary interpretations revolve around resistance, endurance, or continuation.