down crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a puzzle and need a hand with the clue 'down crossword clue', you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with their letter counts and meanings, to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "down crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FALL: To move downwards under the influence of gravity.
5 Letters
LOWER: To cause something to move to a lower position or level.
SOUTH: A cardinal direction, often depicted as 'down' on most maps.
7 Letters
DESCEND: To move or go downwards, typically from a higher to a lower point.
8 Letters
VERTICAL: Situated in a position going straight up or down, perpendicular to a horizontal plane, common for 'down' clues in grids.
More About "down crossword clue"
'Down' is a fundamental and frequently encountered clue in crosswords, referring to words that are to be written vertically in the grid. While seemingly straightforward, the simplicity of the term 'down' often hides a range of meanings, making it a versatile clue for puzzle setters. It can relate to physical movement, direction, position, or even a state of being.
When you encounter 'down' as a clue, it's crucial to consider the context of the puzzle. Is it asking for a verb indicating movement, like 'FALL' or 'DESCEND'? Or is it a directional term, such as 'SOUTH'? It could also refer to a position, like 'BELOW', or even an emotional state, like 'SAD'. The surrounding clues and any letters you've already filled in are invaluable in narrowing down the possibilities for this common yet broad clue.
Successful solvers learn to associate 'down' with its various synonyms and related concepts. This includes not just actions and directions but also words describing a downward slope, decrease, or even just the orientation within the grid itself, as seen with terms like 'VERTICAL'. Mastering this clue's nuances will significantly improve your crossword solving speed and accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check for Context: 'Down' can mean physical descent, a direction (like South), or even a state (e.g., 'feeling down'). Always consider the overall theme of the puzzle or other solved letters.
- Letter Count is Key: For a clue as broad as 'down', the number of letters provided is crucial. It narrows down the possibilities significantly, helping you choose between 'FALL' and 'DESCEND'.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the opposite of 'up' or similar to 'fall', 'lower', 'decrease'. Sometimes, the clue is a verb, sometimes an adjective, sometimes a noun.
- Consider Cross-Referencing: If a 'down' clue intersects with an 'across' clue, try to solve the intersecting letter first. This can often unlock both words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'down' a common crossword clue?
Because it's a fundamental directional term, often used literally (to fall, to descend) or figuratively (to feel sad, to record). In crosswords, 'down' specifically refers to clues whose answers are written vertically in the grid.
What's the difference between a 'down' clue and an 'across' clue?
In a crossword grid, 'down' clues refer to words that are filled in vertically, from top to bottom. 'Across' clues refer to words that are filled in horizontally, from left to right. Each type has its own numbered clue in the puzzle list.
How can I figure out if 'down' refers to a direction or an action?
The best way is to look at the letter count and any other intersecting letters you might have. For example, if it's a 5-letter word and you have an 'S' as the first letter, 'SOUTH' is a strong candidate if the puzzle involves directions. If it's a verb, it might be 'LOWER' or 'DROOP'.