belittle nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and got stuck on "belittle," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "belittle nyt crossword" by Letter Count
9 Letters
DENIGRATE: To criticize unfairly; disparage.
8 Letters
MINIMIZE: To reduce (something, especially something undesirable) to the smallest possible amount or degree.
5 Letters
DECRY: Publicly denounce.
SCOFF: Speak to someone or about something in a scornfully derisive or mocking way.
More About "belittle nyt crossword"
The clue "belittle" is a common one in crosswords, often appearing in the New York Times puzzles due to its versatility and the array of synonyms available. When you encounter this clue, the setter is usually looking for a word that implies making something seem less important, significant, or valuable. This can range from subtle dismissal to outright disparagement.
Solving clues like "belittle" requires a good grasp of vocabulary and an ability to consider various shades of meaning. While 'denigrate' might be a strong, formal synonym, other answers like 'decry' or 'scoff' suggest a more dismissive or contemptuous attitude, fitting different letter counts and puzzle contexts. Always consider the surrounding letters in your grid to narrow down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If "belittle" has a 5-letter slot, you'd look for words like DECRY or SCOFF, not DENIGRATE.
- Consider Nuances of Meaning: "Belittle" can imply different actions. Does the context suggest public condemnation (DECRY), making something seem small (MINIMIZE), or general criticism (DENIGRATE)?
- Check for Crossings: Use the letters you've filled in from intersecting clues. These letters are definitive and will help confirm or deny potential answers for "belittle."
- Think of Antonyms: Sometimes, understanding what a word ISN'T can lead you to its synonym. If a word means the opposite of praise or exalt, it might fit "belittle."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'belittle' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'belittle' typically refers to actions or words that make something or someone seem unimportant, less valuable, or inferior. Clues might hint at synonyms like 'disparage,' 'denigrate,' 'minimize,' or 'decry.'
Why might there be multiple answers for 'belittle'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers depending on the number of letters required for a specific slot in the puzzle. Different synonyms for 'belittle' will fit different letter counts, making it a common occurrence to have several solutions.
How can I find related crossword clues for 'belittle'?
To find related clues, think of synonyms or antonyms, phrases, or idiomatic expressions related to making something seem small or insignificant. Online crossword databases can also help by showing other clues that have led to the same answers as 'belittle'.