cease crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "cease crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by word length, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "cease crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
STOP: To bring to an end; to discontinue an action or activity.
HALT: To stop moving or progress, often abruptly.
QUIT: To give up or discontinue an action, job, or habit.
6 Letters
DESIST: To stop doing something, especially something annoying or unlawful.
7 Letters
ABANDON: To cease to support or look after (someone); to desert. Or, to give up completely (a practice or a course of action).
SUSPEND: To temporarily prevent from continuing or being in force or effect.
9 Letters
TERMINATE: To bring to an end or to finish.
More About "cease crossword clue"
The word "cease" is a versatile verb meaning to stop, discontinue, or bring to an end. In crosswords, it frequently appears as a straightforward synonym clue, prompting solvers to think of direct equivalents. However, the exact answer can depend heavily on the number of letters available in the grid and the specific context provided by the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme.
For example, "cease" could refer to stopping an action (like "cease fire"), a sound ending (a noise that "ceases"), or a more formal discontinuation of a process or activity. Common answers like STOP, HALT, and QUIT are usually the first to consider for shorter lengths. For longer answers, more nuanced synonyms such as DESIST, SUSPEND, or TERMINATE come into play, reflecting different degrees or types of stopping.
Understanding the common synonyms and their slightly different connotations is key to choosing the correct answer. Always consider if the clue implies a temporary stop versus a permanent one, or a complete abandonment versus a mere pause. This subtle linguistic analysis often helps pinpoint the exact word the puzzle creator intends.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Synonyms: For direct clues like "cease", immediately brainstorm a list of synonyms. Write them down and count their letters to see if any match the available spaces.
- Consider Tense and Form: While "cease" is a verb, some answers might be nouns (e.g., "end" if the clue was 'The cease of operations'). Always check if the answer fits the grammatical context of the clue.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're unsure about an answer, fill in the letters you gain from intersecting words. These letters will often reveal the correct solution for "cease" by eliminating incorrect synonyms.
- Think of Phrases: Occasionally, "cease" might be part of a common phrase or idiom. While less common for direct synonym clues, it's a good habit to consider if other words in the clue hint at a larger expression.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'cease' typically mean in a crossword clue?
'Cease' in a crossword clue usually implies 'stop', 'end', 'halt', or 'discontinue'. It's a direct synonym clue, so solvers should look for words that mean to bring something to a finish, whether it's an action, an event, or a process. Context might sometimes suggest a more specific nuance, like a gradual cessation or an abrupt halt.
How can I determine the correct length for a 'cease' answer?
The correct length for 'cease' answers is determined by the number of blank squares provided in the crossword grid. If you have four blanks, look for a 4-letter synonym like STOP or HALT. If there are six, consider DESIST. Always count the squares carefully, and if an answer doesn't fit, it's likely the wrong word or tense, even if it's a synonym.
Are there common pitfalls when solving clues like 'cease'?
A common pitfall is overlooking verb tenses or singular/plural forms. 'Cease' is a verb, so answers might be present tense (STOP), past tense (CEASED, if clued differently), or even nouns (END, HALT) if the clue allows for it. Always check the surrounding letters and the overall theme of the puzzle for additional hints that might narrow down the possibilities. Sometimes, 'cease' can be part of a phrase, so consider idioms too.