hold sway crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "hold sway" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "hold sway crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RULE: To exercise ultimate authority or control over a country, organization, or people.
5 Letters
REIGN: To hold royal office; to be the dominant or controlling power in a particular field.
6 Letters
GOVERN: To conduct the policy, actions, and affairs of (a state, organization, or people).
7 Letters
PREVAIL: To prove more powerful or superior; be victorious or dominant.
8 Letters
DOMINATE: To have a commanding influence on; exercise control over.
9 Letters
INFLUENCE: The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself.
More About "hold sway crossword clue"
The phrase "hold sway" is a classic idiom often encountered in crosswords, conveying the idea of exercising power, control, or dominance. It suggests a strong and pervasive influence that one person, group, or idea might have over another. Understanding this nuance is key to unlocking the correct answer, as various synonyms can fit depending on the specific context and letter count.
When solving for "hold sway," solvers should think of verbs that denote leadership, governance, or significant impact. The answers provided above, such as RULE, REIGN, and DOMINATE, all perfectly capture this essence. Each answer, while similar in meaning, fits a different length constraint, making it crucial to cross-reference with the number of letters required by your crossword grid.
This clue is a good example of how common idioms and phrases are translated into single-word answers in crosswords. By recognizing such patterns, you not only solve the current puzzle but also build a mental database of common crossword associations, making future puzzles easier to tackle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of boxes available for your answer. This is the most critical first step for clues like "hold sway" that have multiple possible solutions.
- Check Crossing Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These confirmed letters can eliminate many possibilities and quickly point you to the correct answer for "hold sway."
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme or Editor: Some crossword puzzles or editors have a particular style or common vocabulary. If you're stuck, think about previous clues you've solved in the same puzzle or by the same editor; this might provide a hint towards the expected answer.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "hold sway," brainstorm all possible synonyms for 'control,' 'influence,' or 'power.' Sometimes, thinking of the opposite (e.g., 'be powerless') can also indirectly lead to the right word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hold sway' mean in general usage?
'Hold sway' means to have power, control, or influence over something or someone. It implies maintaining authority or dominance.
Are there other similar clues to 'hold sway'?
Yes, clues like 'exercise power', 'be in control', 'rule over', 'have dominion', or 'exert influence' are very similar and might lead to the same answers.
How can I deduce the correct 'hold sway' answer if multiple fit?
Consider the number of letters required by the grid. Also, look at crossing letters from other solved clues; these will narrow down the possibilities significantly and help you choose between options like RULE, REIGN, or DOMINATE.