holds back crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! You've landed on the perfect page for solving the crossword clue "holds back crossword clue". Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "holds back crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CURBS: To restrain or control something undesirable.
STOPS: To put an end to the movement or progress of something.
7 Letters
HINDERS: Creates difficulties for someone or something, causing delay or obstruction.
RETAINS: Continues to have (something); keep possession of.
STIFLES: To prevent or stop something from happening or developing.
9 Letters
RESTRAINS: To prevent someone or something from doing something; keep under control or check.
REPRESSES: To suppress or restrain (a feeling or desire) by conscious effort.
More About "holds back crossword clue"
"Holds back" is a versatile phrase in crosswords, often hinting at actions related to inhibition, delay, or control. Depending on the context, it can refer to physical restraint, emotional suppression, or even an impediment to progress. The key to solving such clues lies in considering synonyms across various domains.
For instance, 'holds back' might describe a person controlling their emotions, a dam holding back water, or a barrier holding back a crowd. Therefore, answers can range from verbs indicating physical control like 'CURBS' or 'RESTRAINS', to those implying emotional or developmental suppression like 'REPRESSES' or 'STIFLES'. Always look at the surrounding clues and the letter count to narrow down the possibilities and pinpoint the exact answer the puzzle setter intends.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms broadly: For clues like "holds back," think beyond the most obvious meaning. Could it mean emotional restraint, physical barrier, or delaying progress?
- Check letter count first: Once you have a few potential synonyms, immediately check which ones match the required letter count in your puzzle. This is often the quickest way to eliminate incorrect answers.
- Look at intersecting words: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues first. Even one confirmed letter can dramatically help you guess the right word for "holds back."
- Use a thesaurus: If you're completely stumped, a good thesaurus can provide a wealth of synonyms that might be the exact answer you're looking for.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'holds back' typically imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'holds back' often implies restraint, suppression, delay, or obstruction. It can refer to physical action, emotional control, or preventing progress. Common synonyms like 'CURBS', 'RESTRAINS', 'HINDERS', or 'REPRESSES' are frequently used as answers.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'CURBS' and 'RESTRAINS' for 'holds back'?
The distinction often lies in nuance and the number of letters. 'CURBS' typically implies a more general control or limitation, often on something undesirable (e.g., curb inflation). 'RESTRAINS' suggests preventing movement or expression more directly. The number of letters required by the grid is the most definitive guide, but context from other intersecting words can also help.
Are there any common misinterpretations of 'holds back' in crosswords?
One common misinterpretation is focusing only on the physical aspect. 'Holds back' can also refer to emotional suppression (e.g., 'REPRESSES' a feeling), intellectual obstruction ('HINDERS' understanding), or delaying progress. Always consider the broader semantic field of the clue.