loses crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the "loses crossword clue", helping you complete your puzzle with ease. We've got solutions for various word lengths to fit your specific needs.
Solutions for "loses crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHEDS: Discards or gets rid of something, often naturally, like an animal shedding fur.
DROPS: Lets go of or allows to fall; also, to no longer have something.
6 Letters
WASTES: Fails to make good use of; squanders resources or opportunities.
7 Letters
DEFEATS: Is beaten in a contest or struggle; suffers a loss.
8 Letters
FORFEITS: Gives up or surrenders something as a penalty, often by rule.
9 Letters
MISPLACES: Puts something in the wrong place and cannot find it.
More About "loses crossword clue"
The crossword clue "loses" is a versatile one that can refer to a multitude of scenarios, from the literal act of misplacing an object to the figurative act of surrendering a game or even shedding an unwanted habit. Crossword setters frequently use this word due to its rich semantic field, which includes nuances of discarding, failing, diminishing, or simply no longer possessing something. Understanding the context of the puzzle – whether it's a noun, verb, or part of a phrase – is crucial for pinpointing the exact answer.
Common synonyms for "loses" can range from straightforward verbs like "drops" or "sheds" to more formal terms such as "forfeits" or "succumbs." The key differentiation often lies in the agency (is the loss intentional or accidental?), the nature of what is lost (physical items, abstract concepts like hope or control, or even weight), and the outcome (a defeat, a disposal, or a temporary inability to find). Analyzing these subtleties in conjunction with the letter count helps narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Beyond direct synonyms, "loses" might appear in clues hinting at idiomatic expressions, such as "Loses one's cool" or "Loses heart," requiring a more creative and lateral thinking approach. Pay close attention to surrounding words in the clue as they often provide vital clues to the specific meaning the setter intends for 'loses'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like 'loses,' think broadly about words that mean 'gives up,' 'misplaces,' 'discards,' or even their opposites if the clue implies reversal.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters provided in the grid matches your potential answer. This is crucial for 'loses' clues, as many synonyms exist with different lengths.
- Context is Key: Look at intersecting words. If 'loses' is an answer, what does the crossing word hint at? Is it a noun (e.g., 'weight'), a verb (e.g., 'control'), or an abstract concept (e.g., 'hope')?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'loses crossword clue'?
The word 'loses' has many synonyms and can be used in various contexts (losing an item, losing a game, losing weight, losing time). Crossword setters exploit this versatility, leading to multiple correct answers depending on the specific nuance and letter count required by the puzzle.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'SHEDS' and 'DROPS'?
The key is the subtle meaning in the clue. 'SHEDS' often implies a natural or involuntary discard (e.g., 'Sheds skin'), while 'DROPS' suggests letting go or falling (e.g., 'Drops the ball'). Pay attention to the exact phrasing of the clue and any implied actions.
What if none of the suggested answers fit my puzzle?
Crossword clues can be tricky! First, double-check your letter count. Then, consider if the clue is a pun, an idiom, or a less common synonym. Also, check if you've entered any intersecting letters incorrectly. Sometimes, a completely different word choice for an intersecting clue will unlock the correct answer for 'loses'.