incentive crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "incentive," 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 crack your puzzle.
Solutions for "incentive crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SPUR: A thing that prompts or encourages someone; a stimulus.
LURE: Something used to entice or tempt.
5 Letters
BONUS: An amount of money added to wages for good performance, or a payment given in addition to what is usual or expected.
DRIVE: An innate, typically fixed pattern of behavior or a strong desire or urge.
6 Letters
MOTIVE: A reason for doing something; something that causes a person to act.
REWARD: A thing given in recognition of one's service, effort, or achievement.
7 Letters
PREMIUM: A sum added to an ordinary price or charge; often a reward or bonus.
IMPETUS: The force or energy with which a body moves or something that makes a process or activity more active or rapid.
8 Letters
STIMULUS: A thing that rouses activity or energy in someone or something; a spur or incentive.
10 Letters
INDUCEMENT: A thing that persuades or influences someone to do something.
13 Letters
ENCOURAGEMENT: The action of giving someone support, confidence, or hope.
More About "incentive crossword clue"
The term "incentive" in a crossword puzzle often points to words that describe a driving force, a reward, or a reason for action. Crossword setters love clues that have multiple synonyms, allowing for a range of answers depending on the required length and the context provided by intersecting words. When you encounter "incentive," think about what encourages, motivates, or prompts someone to do something.
Clues like "incentive" can be tricky because the meaning can be subtle. Is it a monetary reward, a psychological push, or an external factor? Always consider the nuances of the synonyms. For example, 'BONUS' implies a financial incentive, while 'MOTIVE' suggests an internal reason. Paying attention to other words in the clue (if any) or the overall theme of the puzzle can provide crucial hints.
This type of clue is a staple in many crosswords, from daily newspapers to more challenging cryptic puzzles. Familiarity with the common synonyms provided above will significantly boost your success rate. Remember that sometimes the answer might be a more obscure synonym, so don't be afraid to think outside the box once you've exhausted the most common options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Word Length: Always confirm the number of letters required. This is your primary filter for potential answers.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from crossing words. They will quickly confirm or rule out potential solutions.
- Consider Synonyms & Antonyms: For clues like "incentive," think broadly about words that mean 'motivation,' 'reward,' 'encouragement,' or even 'deterrent' (if the clue implies the opposite).
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Is the clue playful, formal, or specific? This can sometimes hint at the type of word needed (e.g., a slang term versus a formal one).
- Patience is Key: Don't get discouraged if you don't see the answer immediately. Sometimes taking a break and coming back with fresh eyes helps the solution reveal itself.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'incentive' mean in the context of a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'incentive' typically refers to something that motivates, prompts, or encourages an action. Look for synonyms related to motivation, reward, stimulus, drive, or a reason for doing something. The exact answer will depend on the number of letters and any intersecting clues.
How can I find the correct word length for 'incentive' in a crossword puzzle?
The number of letters for an 'incentive' clue will always be provided with the clue itself (e.g., 'Incentive (6 letters)'). Use this number to narrow down potential answers from a list of synonyms. If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, those will also guide you to the correct length and specific word.
Are there common synonyms for 'incentive' used in crosswords?
Yes, many! Common synonyms for 'incentive' in crosswords include SPUR, LURE, BONUS, MOTIVE, DRIVE, REWARD, IMPETUS, STIMULUS, PREMIUM, BAIT, and INDUCEMENT. The specific answer will depend on the context of the puzzle, the setter's style, and the number of letters required.