explain crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "explain crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "explain crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TELL: To make something known or understood. Often a concise answer for 'explain' when limited by space.
6 Letters
DEFINE: To state or set out the meaning of something. A very common and direct synonym for explain.
7 Letters
CLARIFY: To make something clearer or easier to understand. Implies removing ambiguity or confusion.
EXPOUND: To present and explain a theory or idea in detail. A more formal and in-depth form of explanation.
9 Letters
ELUCIDATE: To make (something) clear; explain. Often used for complex or obscure matters.
More About "explain crossword clue"
"Explain" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often leading to a range of synonyms that denote making something clear, interpreting, or detailing. The challenge lies in selecting the precise word that fits the available letters and the context of the puzzle. Clues involving "explain" can range from straightforward definitions to more nuanced requests for elucidation or clarification, demanding a broad vocabulary from the solver.
When you encounter "explain" as a clue, consider not just its direct synonyms but also words that imply the *act* of explaining. For instance, words that suggest 'telling', 'showing', 'unfolding', or 'laying out' information can sometimes be valid answers, especially in more cryptic or wordplay-heavy puzzles. Always keep an eye on the word count and any already-filled letters to narrow down the possibilities effectively.
Understanding the subtle differences between words like 'define', 'clarify', and 'expound' is key to mastering these types of clues. 'Define' typically seeks a precise, often dictionary-like meaning. 'Clarify' implies resolving confusion or ambiguity. 'Expound' suggests a detailed, often extensive explanation of a complex topic. Knowing these distinctions can guide you to the exact word the puzzle setter intends.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always start by counting the number of letters in the blank. This immediately eliminates many potential answers and is crucial for clues like "explain" which have many synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your most powerful tools for confirming or eliminating potential answers for "explain crossword clue".
- Consider Nuance and Tone: Does the clue imply a simple telling, a formal definition, or a detailed breakdown? The specific nuance of "explain" can guide you to answers like TELL, DEFINE, or ELUCIDATE.
- Think Beyond Synonyms: While synonyms are primary, sometimes "explain" clues use wordplay. Could it refer to 'unfolding' something, or 'making plain'? Always consider the possibility of puns or cryptic interpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which 'explain' answer to use in a crossword?
The correct answer often depends on the length of the blank in your crossword grid and any intersecting letters you've already filled in. Additionally, consider the crossword's theme, the setter's style, and whether the clue implies a formal explanation (like DEFINE or ELUCIDATE) or a simpler disclosure (like TELL or STATE).
Are synonyms always the answer to 'explain' clues?
While direct synonyms like CLARIFY, EXPOUND, or DEFINE are common, a clue involving 'explain' might sometimes be more literal or cryptic. For instance, 'Explain' could be part of a wordplay clue where you need to 'unfold' or 'lay out' letters. Always check for double meanings, homophones, or hidden wordplay elements before settling on a simple synonym.
What's the difference between 'explain' and 'define' in crossword clues?
In a crossword context, 'explain' is generally broader, meaning to make something clear or understandable. 'Define' is more specific, usually referring to providing the precise meaning of a word, term, or concept, often as found in a dictionary. Both can be answers to each other's clues, but 'define' often points to a more dictionary-like or formal term, while 'explain' can lead to a wider range of words covering clarity and disclosure.