kick off crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "kick off crossword clue" and need a quick solution, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle completed.
Solutions for "kick off crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
START: To begin an activity, event, or process. This is a very common synonym for 'kick off' in a general sense.
BEGIN: To perform the first part of an action or course. Similar to START, and often interchangeable depending on the nuance of the clue.
DEBUT: The first public appearance of a new product, person, or activity. Implies a formal or notable 'kick off'.
6 Letters
LAUNCH: To set in motion or initiate an activity or enterprise, often with a formal start. This word perfectly captures the sense of 'kicking off' a new project or product.
8 Letters
COMMENCE: To begin; to start. Often used in a more formal context, making it a strong contender for a formal 'kick off' event.
More About "kick off crossword clue"
The phrase "kick off" is versatile, deriving its literal meaning from sports like soccer or American football, where a game literally begins with a kick. In the realm of crosswords, however, its usage extends far beyond the pitch. It's predominantly used metaphorically to mean 'to begin', 'to initiate', or 'to launch' an event, project, or discussion.
Understanding this dual nature is crucial when tackling the clue. A setter might use it to trick solvers into thinking about sports, when the answer is a simple synonym for 'start'. Conversely, a clue might lean into the sports context, requiring a more specific answer. Always consider the surrounding words and the puzzle's theme to discern the intended meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Context: Does the clue hint at a sporting event, or a general beginning? This will guide you towards literal (e.g., related to a game) or metaphorical (e.g., launch, begin) answers.
- Consider Synonyms: Think broadly about words that mean 'to start' or 'to initiate'. Words like START, BEGIN, LAUNCH, DEBUT, and COMMENCE are primary candidates.
- Check Letter Count: Always match the possible answer's length with the number of blanks in the grid. This is often the quickest way to narrow down options when multiple synonyms exist.
- Look for Prefixes/Suffixes: Sometimes 'kick off' might be part of a larger phrase or word with a prefix/suffix. Though less common for this specific clue, it's a good general strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'kick off' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'kick off' typically refers to the act of starting, beginning, or initiating something. While it can literally refer to the start of a sports game (like soccer or American football), it's more often used metaphorically to mean 'to begin' or 'to launch' a project, event, or discussion.
How can I distinguish between similar 'start' clues?
Pay close attention to the word count, any specific wording in the clue, and existing letters in the grid. For instance, if the clue hints at a first appearance, 'DEBUT' might be a better fit than 'START'. If it implies a formal beginning, 'COMMENCE' could be the answer. Context is key.
Are there common phrases related to 'kick off' in crosswords?
While 'kick off' itself is often the phrase, variations or synonyms like 'set in motion', 'get underway', 'inaugurate', or 'initiate' are common. Also, be mindful of wordplay where 'kick off' might refer to removing shoes ('KICKOFF SHOE' or similar pun, though less common for this exact clue).