impair crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the "impair" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and finish your puzzle.
Solutions for "impair crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To disfigure or spoil, often subtly.
4 Letters
HARM: To cause damage or injury.
HURT: To cause pain or injury to.
5 Letters
SPOIL: To diminish or destroy the value or quality of.
6 Letters
DAMAGE: Physical harm that impairs the value, usefulness, or normal function of something.
WEAKEN: To make or become weaker.
More About "impair crossword clue"
"Impair" is a common verb found in crossword puzzles, and its meaning often revolves around causing damage, weakening, or diminishing the quality or function of something. Clues for "impair" can be quite direct, asking for a synonym, or more subtle, requiring you to think about the effect of impairment.
Understanding the nuances of words related to "impair" is crucial. While words like HARM and HURT denote direct injury, words like MAR and SPOIL suggest a lessening of perfection or value. DAMAGE and WEAKEN point to a reduction in capability or strength. Crossword setters often play on these subtle differences, so considering the context of the entire puzzle can be beneficial.
Always consider the letter count first, as it narrows down the possibilities significantly. Then, use any intersecting letters from other clues to confirm your choice. With a good grasp of its various synonyms, "impair" will no longer be an intimidating clue in your next puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms Broadly: For clues like "impair," don't just think of direct synonyms. Consider words that describe the *result* of impairment or the *process* of causing it.
- Utilize Letter Count: Always check the number of boxes provided. This is your primary filter for potential answers, as demonstrated by our categorized solutions above.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most powerful crossword solving technique is to use letters from solved intersecting clues. If a letter conflicts, you know one of your answers is incorrect.
- Consider Parts of Speech: If "impair" is clued as a verb, your answer should likely be a verb. If it's implied as a noun (e.g., "an impairment"), then a noun answer might be appropriate, though this is less common for the direct clue "impair."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'impair' typically mean in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'impair' usually refers to actions that diminish, damage, weaken, or spoil something. Common synonyms that fit as answers include 'harm,' 'mar,' 'hurt,' 'damage,' 'weaken,' and 'spoil.'
How can I find the correct synonym for 'impair' if multiple fit the letter count?
If multiple synonyms fit the given letter count, check the intersecting letters from other clues. This is the most reliable way to confirm which answer is correct. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue; sometimes a subtle difference in meaning can point to the right word.
Are there tricky ways 'impair' might be clued in crosswords?
Yes, 'impair' can be clued in various ways. Beyond direct synonyms like 'damage' or 'weaken,' it might be hinted at through phrases like 'render useless,' 'make worse,' 'spoil the effect of,' or even by describing a state resulting from impairment, like 'cause to falter.' Context is key!