crossword clue maintain – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "maintain," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue maintain" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEP: To continue to have or hold something, ensuring it stays in its current state.
6 Letters
RETAIN: To keep possession of; to continue to have or hold something, often implying holding onto something that could be lost.
UPHOLD: To maintain or affirm against opposition; to support and defend a decision or principle.
7 Letters
SUSTAIN: To cause to continue or be prolonged; to provide support for, or to keep alive.
8 Letters
PRESERVE: To keep in safety and protect from harm, decay, or damage; to maintain something in its original or existing state.
More About "crossword clue maintain"
"Maintain" is a versatile word often appearing in crosswords due to its multiple meanings, which can include keeping something in good condition, asserting a point, providing support, or continuing an action. This flexibility makes it a favorite among crossword setters, but can also pose a challenge to solvers.
Understanding the context is key. For instance, "maintain a car" implies upkeep, while "maintain innocence" means to assert or claim. Crossword clues are designed to make you think about these nuances. By considering all possible interpretations of "maintain" and cross-referencing with the number of letters required and any existing letters in the grid, you can pinpoint the correct answer.
Our solutions aim to cover the most common answers associated with this clue, offering explanations that clarify their specific usage. Whether you're looking for a short four-letter word like "KEEP" or a longer one like "PRESERVE," you'll find the help you need to complete your puzzle efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of blank squares in your grid against the suggested answer length. This is the most fundamental step for success.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "maintain," think of all possible synonyms. Sometimes, the clue might even imply an opposite, or a word that's closely related but not a direct synonym.
- Use Crossing Letters: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They eliminate incorrect answers and often point directly to the right one for "maintain."
- Think About Context: Crossword clues often have a specific tone or theme. Is the puzzle general knowledge, a pun, or a specific type of wordplay? This can help you interpret "maintain" in the intended way.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right length answer for "maintain" in crosswords?
The length of the answer is crucial! Check the number of blank squares in your crossword grid. This tells you exactly how many letters the word should have. Our page categorizes answers by length to make this process simple and efficient.
What are common synonyms for "maintain" used as crossword answers?
Common synonyms for 'maintain' often used in crosswords include KEEP, HOLD, UPHOLD, SUSTAIN, RETAIN, PRESERVE, SUPPORT, and DEFEND. The specific context of the puzzle, such as whether it refers to upkeep, support, or continuation, and other crossing words will help narrow down the exact solution.
Are there any tricks for clues like "maintain" that have multiple meanings?
'Maintain' can have several meanings, such as 'to keep in good condition,' 'to support a claim or belief,' or 'to provide for (e.g., a family).' When faced with such a versatile clue, pay close attention to any other words in the clue, the puzzle's overall theme, and especially any crossing letters you already have. These hints often guide you to the intended meaning and the correct answer.