crossword clue employ – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "employ", 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 perfect solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue employ" by Letter Count
3 Letters
USE: To put into service or action. A very common and direct synonym for employing something.
4 Letters
HIRE: To engage the services of someone for payment. Often used when the clue implies personnel or workers.
5 Letters
APPLY: To put to practical use or operation; to exert. This answer often fits when the clue suggests using a method or force.
EXERT: To apply or bring to bear (a force, influence, or quality). Similar to 'apply', often used with effort or power.
6 Letters
ENGAGE: To hire or involve someone for a particular purpose; to involve oneself in. Can refer to hiring a person or becoming involved in an activity.
RETAIN: To keep possession of; to continue to have. Can mean to keep someone in one's service.
7 Letters
UTILIZE: To make practical and effective use of. A more formal synonym for 'use', often used when efficiency is implied.
OPERATE: To control the functioning of a machine, process, or system. Can mean to use or employ a device.
More About "crossword clue employ"
"Employ" is a versatile word that frequently appears in crosswords, and its meaning can range from using an object or skill to hiring a person. This breadth means that multiple answers, varying in length and nuance, can potentially fit the clue. Understanding the context of the puzzle and any accompanying words in the clue is key to selecting the correct solution.
When you encounter "employ" in a crossword, think about whether the puzzle is asking for a synonym related to 'using a tool', 'hiring staff', or 'applying a skill or strategy'. For instance, if the clue is "Employ a new chef," HIRE would be a strong candidate. If it's "Employ a tactic," then USE or APPLY might be better fits.
Our goal at Answercrossword.com is to provide you with all the possible avenues for a given clue, ensuring you have the exact word you need to complete your grid with confidence. We analyze common crossword patterns and linguistic associations to give you the most accurate and helpful results.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the provided letter count with the potential answers. This is your most powerful filter for narrowing down options.
- Check Crossing Letters: If you have any letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to confirm or rule out potential solutions.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often rely on direct synonyms, but sometimes antonyms or wordplay (like "Employ, perhaps," hinting at a homophone or a less direct meaning) can be involved.
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Is the clue formal or informal? Does it hint at a specific domain (e.g., business, military, kitchen)? This can guide you towards more precise synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "employ" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "employ" often signifies words related to using, hiring, or engaging services or resources. It can refer to actions like putting something to use, taking on staff, or applying a skill or method.
Are there common synonyms for "employ" found in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include USE, HIRE, APPLY, ENGAGE, RETAIN, UTILIZE, and sometimes even words like OCCUPY or OPERATE, depending on the specific nuance and letter count required by the puzzle.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for "employ"?
Always look at the number of letters required by the grid. Additionally, consider any crossing letters you've already filled in. The specific phrasing of the clue can also provide subtle hints. For example, 'Employ a tool' might lean towards USE, whereas 'Employ a new worker' would suggest HIRE.