discourage crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "discourage" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution. Get ready to conquer your puzzle with ease!
Solutions for "discourage crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FOIL: To prevent someone from accomplishing something; often used in a way that discourages further attempts.
5 Letters
DETER: To discourage someone from doing something, usually by instilling doubt or fear.
DAUNT: To make someone feel intimidated or apprehensive; to discourage by fear.
7 Letters
INHIBIT: To hinder, restrain, or prevent an action or process, thereby discouraging its continuation.
8 Letters
DISSUADE: To persuade someone not to take a particular course of action, effectively discouraging them.
9 Letters
FRUSTRATE: To prevent (a plan or effort) from succeeding; to make someone feel disheartened or discouraged.
More About "discourage crossword puzzle clue"
The word "discourage" in crosswords can be surprisingly versatile, leading to a range of answers depending on the nuance the puzzle setter intends. It often relates to actions that prevent, hinder, or deter. When you encounter this clue, think about synonyms that imply putting a stop to something, making an effort seem pointless, or even disheartening someone.
Puzzle constructors love words that have multiple meanings or applications, and "discourage" fits this perfectly. It might refer to stopping a physical action, preventing a plan from succeeding, or even lowering someone's morale. The length of the answer is your primary hint, but also consider the context of the puzzle – is it a straightforward synonym, or is there a clever pun or cryptic twist involved?
By understanding the various facets of "discourage," you'll be better equipped to identify the precise answer required for your crossword. Remember, context is key, and sometimes a less obvious synonym might be the perfect fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: "Discourage" can mean to prevent, deter, or simply lower spirits. Consider which shade of meaning the clue is hinting at.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: The number of letters in the answer block is your strongest indicator. Match this precisely with potential synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from intersecting words. This will dramatically narrow down your options for "discourage."
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Words like DETER, DAUNT, and DISSUADE are very common answers for this type of clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'discourage' typically imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'discourage' often points to answers related to preventing, deterring, or disheartening someone from an action or feeling. It can refer to making something less likely to happen, or lowering someone's spirits. Common synonyms like 'deter', 'daunt', 'dissuade', 'repress', or 'inhibit' are frequent answers.
Are there common letter patterns for 'discourage' answers?
While there's no single pattern, answers often start with 'D' (DETER, DAUNT, DISSUADE) or involve words that mean 'stop' or 'hinder'. The key is to consider words of various lengths that fit the 'prevention' or 'disheartening' theme. Always check surrounding letters and other clues in your puzzle.
How can I quickly find the right 'discourage' answer if I'm stuck?
First, count the number of blank squares for the answer. Then, look at any intersecting words you've already filled in to see what letters are given. Combine these with common synonyms for 'discourage' to narrow down possibilities. Websites like Answercrossword.com provide solutions organized by letter count to help speed up the process.