encourages crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate guide to solving the clue "encourages crossword." We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "encourages crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HELPS: Provides assistance or aid to someone, thereby 'encouraging' their efforts or progress.
SPURS: Urges or stimulates action, acting as an 'encouragement' for activity or development.
FUELS: Supplies something that strengthens or supports, thereby 'encouraging' growth or continuation.
7 Letters
FOSTERS: Encourages or promotes the development of something, typically a positive quality or idea.
8 Letters
PROMOTES: Actively supports or furthers the development or cause of something, directly aligning with 'encourages'.
More About "encourages crossword"
The clue "encourages" in crosswords is a versatile one, often pointing to words that imply support, stimulation, or assistance. Its commonality stems from the many ways one can encourage something or someone, ranging from direct help to fostering an environment conducive to growth. Solvers should consider the nuance of the clue – is it about a direct action, a nurturing process, or a motivating force?
Understanding the context within the puzzle is crucial. For instance, if the clue hints at a negative connotation, 'ABETS' (to encourage or assist in wrongdoing) might be a less common but valid answer. However, for a general 'encourages' clue, more positive synonyms like 'HELPS', 'SPURS', or 'PROMOTES' are typically expected. The letter count provided by the puzzle is the most definitive guide.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: Is "encourages" used as a verb (as it is here) or possibly a noun or adjective in disguise? This helps narrow down the type of word you're looking for.
- Look for Common Suffixes/Prefixes: Words like 'un-', '-ing', '-ed' often give clues to word forms. While not directly applicable to the core meaning of 'encourages', it's a general strategy.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that mean the opposite of 'discourages' to open up your lexical field. Brainstorming direct synonyms for 'encourages' is always a good starting point.
- Check Intersecting Letters: The most important tip! Let the letters you've already filled in from other clues guide your choice, especially when multiple answers fit the definition and length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers due to the richness of the English language, with numerous synonyms, homonyms, and words that fit different nuances of a single concept. The specific answer depends on the intersecting letters from other clues in the puzzle.
How does 'encourages' fit different word lengths?
The word 'encourages' is broad and can be expressed in many ways. For example, a shorter word like 'HELPS' or 'SPURS' indicates direct assistance or motivation, while longer words like 'FOSTERS' or 'PROMOTES' suggest nurturing growth or actively supporting a cause. The context and letter count are key.
What's the best strategy for solving challenging crossword clues?
For tough clues, try these strategies: 1. Fill in easier intersecting words first. 2. Look for common crossword patterns or wordplay (e.g., anagrams, double meanings). 3. Consider the part of speech indicated by the clue. 4. If stuck, take a break and return with fresh eyes. Sometimes, just seeing a few letters can reveal the answer.