fail crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "fail," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "fail crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERR: To make a mistake or be incorrect.
4 Letters
FLOP: To be a complete failure, especially of a show or event.
LACK: To be without or deficient in something necessary or desirable.
5 Letters
STALL: To stop making progress or to cause to stop.
6 Letters
FALTER: To lose strength or momentum; to hesitate.
7 Letters
BLUNDER: A serious mistake, typically one caused by stupidity or carelessness.
MISFIRE: (Of a plan or attempt) go wrong or produce an unintended result.
8 Letters
COLLAPSE: To fall down or give way suddenly; to fail suddenly and completely.
9 Letters
BREAKDOWN: A mechanical failure or a collapse of a system or plan.
More About "fail crossword clue"
The concept of "fail" is a surprisingly rich source for crossword clues, offering setters a wide array of synonyms and contexts to draw from. A clue like "fail" can range from simple verbs like 'ERR' (to make a mistake) to more complex scenarios such as a business 'COLLAPSE' or a plan 'MISFIRE'. This versatility is precisely what makes such clues both challenging and rewarding to solve.
When encountering "fail" in a crossword, it's crucial to consider the nuances implied by the surrounding words in the clue. Is it about a personal mistake, a mechanical malfunction, an event that didn't succeed, or a deficiency? Each interpretation can lead to a different correct answer, making it vital to cross-reference with known letters from other solved clues and the specific word length required.
Crossword puzzle constructors love words with multiple meanings or strong synonyms, and "fail" fits this bill perfectly. By understanding the different facets of failure—from minor errors to complete ruin—solvers can better anticipate the word a setter might be looking for, enhancing their problem-solving skills and enjoyment of the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter and immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "fail," think about all its synonyms (err, flop, falter) and sometimes even its antonyms if the clue is cryptically reversed.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Does the clue imply a person failing, a machine failing, or a plan failing? The context can often lead you to the most appropriate synonym. For instance, "fail to ignite" points to MISFIRE, whereas "fail a test" might suggest FLUNK.
- Utilize Intersecting Words: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is using letters from already solved intersecting words. These letters will confirm or deny your potential answers.
- Don't Be Afraid to Leave and Return: If you're stuck, move on to other clues. Sometimes, solving an unrelated clue provides a crucial intersecting letter that makes the difficult one obvious.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'fail' in crosswords?
The concept of 'fail' is very broad, encompassing various nuances like making a mistake, not succeeding, breaking down, or disappointing. Each nuance can be represented by a different synonym, leading to multiple valid answers depending on the specific context, word length, or cryptic angle of the clue provided by the puzzle setter.
How can I choose the correct 'fail' answer from the options?
To determine the correct answer, consider the number of letters required, any intersecting letters from other clues, and the specific context or tone of the clue. For instance, 'fail to appear' might suggest one answer, while 'fail a test' or 'a business fails' would imply others. Look for subtle hints or wordplay.
What other common crossword clues relate to 'fail'?
Crossword clues related to 'fail' often involve synonyms for error, breakdown, misstep, or defeat. You might see clues like 'Go wrong,' 'Mess up,' 'Come to naught,' 'Flop,' 'Break down,' 'Go bust,' or 'Make a gaffe.' Being familiar with these common synonyms can greatly assist in solving.