break the rules crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "break the rules," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "break the rules crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BEND: To interpret rules flexibly or deviate slightly from them without outright defiance.
5 Letters
CHEAT: To act dishonestly or unfairly in order to gain an advantage, often by disregarding established rules.
6 Letters
DEFIES: To openly resist or refuse to obey, specifically referring to rules or authority.
7 Letters
VIOLATE: To break or infringe a rule, law, or agreement directly and sometimes forcefully.
10 Letters
TRANSGRESS: To infringe or go beyond the bounds of a moral principle, law, or established standard of behavior.
More About "break the rules crossword clue"
The concept of "breaking the rules" is a rich source for crossword clues, as it encompasses a wide range of actions from minor deviations to severe breaches of conduct. Crossword setters love these clues because they allow for various synonyms, each with a slightly different nuance in meaning. For instance, 'BEND' suggests a softer approach to rule-breaking, implying a clever interpretation rather than outright defiance. In contrast, 'VIOLATE' or 'TRANSGRESS' convey a more direct and often more serious infringement.
Understanding these subtle differences is key to selecting the correct answer when faced with such a clue. Consider the context provided by other intersecting words in the puzzle. Is the rule-breaking described as minor or significant? Is it an act of trickery or direct rebellion? These considerations help narrow down the possibilities and lead you to the most fitting solution for your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "break the rules," think about the degree of rule-breaking. Is it a minor deviation, a clever circumvention, or a complete defiance?
- Consider Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your biggest hint. If you have 'VIOLATE' (7 letters) as a possibility, but only have 5 spaces, you know to look for alternatives like 'CHEAT'.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm words related to obedience and disobedience. Sometimes, a clue might be a clever twist on the opposite concept.
- Check Cross-References: Always use intersecting words to confirm your answer. If a word like 'VIOLATE' seems to fit, ensure its letters align with the clues for the crossing words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'break the rules' typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'break the rules' often points to words implying disobedience, defiance, or circumventing regulations. Common answers include 'VIOLATE', 'TRANSGRESS', 'DEFY', or even more subtle actions like 'BEND' or 'CHEAT'.
Are there different levels of 'breaking rules' in crossword answers?
Yes, clue setters often use verbs that range from outright defiance (e.g., 'VIOLATE', 'DEFY') to more subtle bending of rules (e.g., 'BEND', 'CHEAT'). The length of the answer and surrounding letters will often guide you to the specific nuance.
How can I improve my ability to solve clues like 'break the rules'?
Practice is key! Pay attention to synonyms for the core concept (disobey, infringe, defy) and also antonyms (obey, comply, follow) as sometimes the clue might be phrased as 'not break the rules'. Building your vocabulary around these themes will significantly help.