crossword clue steal – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword clue steal," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "crossword clue steal" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ROB: To unlawfully take property from a person or place, often by force.
4 Letters
LIFT: To steal (something), typically of small value or without attracting attention.
LOOT: To steal goods, typically from a place during a riot or war.
6 Letters
THIEVE: To commit theft; to steal.
PILFER: To steal (things of little value).
7 Letters
PLUNDER: To steal goods from a place or person, typically using force.
11 Letters
APPROPRIATE: To take (something) for one's own use, typically without the owner's permission.
More About "crossword clue steal"
The clue "steal" is a common yet versatile one in crosswords, often requiring solvers to think beyond the most obvious definitions. It's a goldmine for constructors due to the multitude of synonyms for taking something without permission. These can range from subtle acts like "pilfer" or "lift" to more forceful actions like "rob" or "plunder."
Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to pinpointing the correct answer, which often depends on the number of letters and any crossing letters you've already filled in. Crossword setters love to play with these variations, sometimes hinting at the method of stealing (e.g., "swipe" implies quickly taking) or the item stolen.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: Many clues, like "steal," have a wide array of synonyms. Think about all possible words for the concept, not just the first one that comes to mind.
- Check letter count: This is often the most crucial hint. If "steal" is a 3-letter word, you're looking for ROB, not APPROPRIATE.
- Look for wordplay: Does the clue hint at a hidden word, an anagram, or a homophone related to "steal"? Some clues are trickier than they appear.
- Use crossing letters: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They'll narrow down the possibilities significantly and confirm your answer.
- Context matters: Is it a specific type of stealing, like "rustle" for cattle, or "burgle" for a house? The clue might hint at the specific context of the act.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'steal' in crosswords?
The word "steal" has numerous synonyms in the English language, each with slightly different connotations (e.g., pilfer, rob, thieve, lift, appropriate). Crossword constructors leverage this rich vocabulary to create diverse clues that can fit various letter counts and puzzle themes. It's a common and versatile concept.
What's the difference between 'rob' and 'steal' in a crossword context?
While both involve taking something unlawfully, 'rob' often implies taking from a person or place by force or threat (e.g., robbing a bank), whereas 'steal' is a more general term for taking property without permission (e.g., stealing a car). In crosswords, constructors may use these distinctions to guide you, or simply as interchangeable synonyms if the letter count dictates.
How do I know which synonym of 'steal' to use?
The letter count is your primary guide. Beyond that, consider the clue's specific phrasing. Does it suggest a small item (PILFER, LIFT), a large amount (PLUNDER, LOOT), or a more forceful act (ROB)? Cross-referencing with other completed letters in the puzzle is essential to confirm your choice.