hold back crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving even the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "hold back crossword," presented by letter count for your convenience. Say goodbye to frustrating blanks and hello to quick, accurate solutions!
Solutions for "hold back crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CURB: To control or limit something; to restrain, often used for emotions or growth.
STEM: To stop or restrict the flow or spread of something.
5 Letters
CHECK: To stop the progress of something; to restrain or limit.
6 Letters
HINDER: To create difficulties for (someone or something), resulting in delay or obstruction.
RETAIN: To keep possession of; to continue to have (something).
ARREST: To stop or check (progress or a process).
8 Letters
RESTRAIN: To prevent (someone or something) from doing something; keep under control or check.
SUPPRESS: To forcibly put an end to; to prevent the development, action, or expression of.
WITHHOLD: To hold back; refuse to give or grant.
More About "hold back crossword"
"Hold back" is a wonderfully versatile phrase in the English language, making it a frequent and sometimes challenging clue in crosswords. Its meaning can range from physical restraint to emotional suppression, or even the act of delaying or reserving something. This ambiguity allows constructors to use a broad spectrum of synonyms, from concise words like CURB or CHECK to more elaborate ones like RESTRAIN or SUPPRESS.
Understanding the nuances of "hold back" is key to deciphering these clues. Sometimes it refers to an action, such as holding back a crowd; other times, it's about an internal state, like holding back tears or anger. In economic contexts, it might mean withholding payment or restricting growth. Always consider the context of the puzzle, and any intersecting letters you've already filled in, to pinpoint the exact shade of meaning the constructor intends.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For clues like "hold back," brainstorm all possible synonyms. Words related to control, limitation, delay, and reservation are all fair game.
- Count Letters Carefully: Once you have a potential answer, always verify its length against the number of spaces in your crossword grid. This is your first crucial check.
- Utilize Intersecting Clues: The most effective way to confirm a tricky answer is by using the letters from words that cross it. If a letter doesn't fit, your answer might be wrong.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: Some crosswords have themes that might subtly guide you. Does the puzzle lean towards historical terms, scientific jargon, or common idioms?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "hold back" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "hold back" usually refers to restraining, limiting, or delaying something. This can apply to abstract concepts like emotions or progress, but sometimes also to physical actions or objects.
Why are there so many possible answers for a clue like "hold back"?
The phrase "hold back" is highly versatile and has numerous synonyms. This allows crossword constructors to use a wide range of words of different lengths that all fit the core meaning. This ambiguity is a common feature in crossword design.
How can I narrow down the options for a crossword clue with multiple meanings like this one?
To narrow down options, first, focus on the number of letters required for the answer. Then, use any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Finally, consider the overall theme or difficulty level of the puzzle, as well as whether the clue is literal or figurative.