breaks down crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving the trickiest crossword clues. Below you'll find comprehensive answers for "breaks down crossword," categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you master your puzzle.
Solutions for "breaks down crossword" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SOLVES: To find the solution or explanation for a puzzle, such as a crossword.
7 Letters
DECODES: To convert a cryptic or encoded message into an understandable form, akin to solving a complex clue.
8 Letters
ANALYZES: To examine something, especially information or a problem, methodically and in detail for explanation and interpretation.
DISSECTS: To analyze (an idea or a work) in detail and interpret it, often breaking it into components.
9 Letters
CLARIFIES: To make something clearer or easier to understand, similar to explaining a complex clue or puzzle.
More About "breaks down crossword"
The clue "breaks down crossword" often points to verbs related to solving, understanding, or explaining a puzzle. In the context of crosswords, 'breaking down' doesn't typically mean a malfunction, but rather the process of deconstructing a clue or the puzzle itself to arrive at the solution. This can involve deciphering cryptic wordplay, finding synonyms, or applying logical reasoning to piece together letters.
This type of clue tests your vocabulary related to analysis, interpretation, and problem-solving. A setter might use it to prompt answers that denote making something clear, finding the hidden meaning, or successfully completing a challenge. Always consider the surrounding words in the clue and the existing letters in the grid to narrow down the possibilities for this versatile phrase.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue Structure: For "breaks down crossword," consider if it's a direct definition, or if "breaks down" is part of a larger wordplay (e.g., an anagram indicator or a hidden word signal).
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm words that mean "solve," "explain," "analyze," or even words that imply the opposite (e.g., complicates, confuses) if the clue is a cryptic antonym.
- Check Letter Count and Crossings: Use the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from solved clues to eliminate unlikely answers and confirm potential solutions.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: "Breaks down" is a phrasal verb. Sometimes clues directly translate these into single-word answers or other phrasal verbs with similar meanings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you 'break down' a crossword clue?
Breaking down a crossword clue involves analyzing it for definitions, synonyms, anagram indicators, hidden words, homophones, and other wordplay techniques. You look for keywords that suggest specific types of clues and try to identify the precise meaning or wordplay intended by the setter.
What's the difference between a direct clue and a cryptic clue?
A direct (or 'straight') clue offers a clear definition or synonym for the answer, often a single word or a simple phrase. A cryptic clue, conversely, has two parts: a definition and a wordplay element (like an anagram, charade, or hidden word), both of which lead to the same answer, often designed to mislead initially.
Are there common themes for 'breaking down' clues in crosswords?
Yes, clues involving 'breaking down' often relate to analysis, explanation, resolution, or deconstruction. Answers might involve words like SOLVE, ANALYZE, EXPLAIN, DECODE, UNRAVEL, or words related to understanding complex systems or ideas. Context is key, as 'breaks down' could also refer to mechanical failure, for instance.