do penance crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're struggling with the clue "do penance" in your latest puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "do penance crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ATONE: To make amends or reparation for a wrong, often by self-imposed punishment or sacrifice.
6 Letters
REPENT: To feel or express sincere regret or remorse about one's wrongdoing; to change one's mind or course of action as a result of regret.
7 Letters
EXPIATE: To atone for (guilt or sin); to make amends for wrongdoings, often implying an effort to wipe out or extinguish the fault.
More About "do penance crossword puzzle clue"
"Do penance" is a clue that often appears in crosswords, drawing on concepts of atonement, repentance, and making amends. It touches upon themes of morality, religion, and personal responsibility, making it a rich source for varied answers depending on the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends. The phrase itself implies an action taken to correct a past wrong or to demonstrate remorse.
Understanding the synonyms for "do penance" is key to mastering this type of clue. While ATONE is a very direct synonym focusing on making amends, REPENT highlights the feeling of regret and the intention to change. EXPIATE, on the other hand, often refers to making amends for a more serious offense, sometimes with a ritualistic or formal connotation. Recognizing these subtle differences can help you select the precise word that fits your puzzle's grid and context.
Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they can have multiple valid answers, requiring solvers to use crossing letters to confirm the correct choice. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting words when trying to solve "do penance" clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The first step for "do penance" or any clue is to note the required number of letters. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm all possible words that mean "do penance," but also consider their opposites if the clue is phrased negatively or ironically.
- Use Crossing Letters: Never try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to help confirm or rule out potential answers.
- Consider Common Crossword Tropes: Some words are simply more common in crosswords than others. Words like ATONE or REPENT are frequent visitors.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: While less common for direct "do penance," always be alert for clues that play on words or sounds.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "do penance" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "do penance" clues often point to verbs related to making amends, showing remorse, or seeking forgiveness for past actions. Common answers include synonyms for atone, repent, or make up for.
Are there common synonyms for "do penance" used in crosswords?
Yes, popular synonyms that frequently appear as answers for "do penance" type clues include ATONE, REPENT, and EXPIATE. The specific answer depends on the required letter count and surrounding clues in the puzzle.
How do I identify the correct answer length for "do penance"?
The crossword grid itself will indicate the number of letters required for the answer, usually shown in parentheses next to the clue (e.g., "do penance (5)"). Use this number to narrow down potential synonyms that fit that specific length.