maintain crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "maintain crossword", 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 your puzzle completed.
Solutions for "maintain crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KEEP: To continue to have or hold something; to cause to continue in a specified state.
HOLD: To keep possession of; to maintain a position or state.
6 Letters
RETAIN: To continue to have; keep possession of.
UPHOLD: To maintain or support (something, such as a custom or law) in the face of opposition.
7 Letters
SUSTAIN: To cause to continue or be prolonged for an extended period; to keep in existence.
8 Letters
PRESERVE: To maintain (something) in its original or existing state.
More About "maintain crossword"
The clue "maintain" is a staple in many crossword puzzles due to its versatile meaning and numerous synonyms across different word lengths. Depending on the context, "maintain" can refer to keeping something in good condition, asserting a belief, supporting a position, or simply continuing an action. Puzzlemakers love such words because they can be clued in multiple ways, testing your vocabulary depth and understanding of nuances.
When you encounter "maintain" as a clue, consider the surrounding words. Is it part of a phrase like "maintain order" or "maintain a healthy diet"? These specifics might point you towards a more precise synonym. Always think about the part of speech and verb tense; if the clue is "maintained," your answer should also be in the past tense, such as "KEPT" or "UPHELD." This attention to detail is crucial for cracking those tougher grids.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always read the clue in conjunction with any surrounding clues or themes. "Maintain" can have different answers if it's about a building (e.g., REPAIR) versus a belief (e.g., UPHOLD).
- Check Letter Count First: Before brainstorming, count the squares. This immediately narrows down your options and helps eliminate words that are too long or too short.
- Consider Common Prefixes/Suffixes: For longer words, think about common crossword-friendly prefixes like 're-' (RETAIN) or suffixes. Sometimes, a part of the word will become obvious from intersecting letters.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While "KEEP" is a common answer for "maintain", don't stop there. Crosswords often look for less common but equally valid synonyms. Expand your mental thesaurus!
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find the best answer for 'maintain crossword' if multiple options fit?
When multiple answers fit the letter count for a clue like 'maintain', cross-reference with intersecting words. The correct answer will be the one that works with all surrounding clues. Pay attention to synonyms and the nuance of the clue.
What are common synonyms for 'maintain' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'maintain' in crossword puzzles include KEEP, HOLD, RETAIN, UPHOLD, SUSTAIN, PRESERVE, and CONSERVE. The specific context of the clue or a phrase might lead to less common synonyms like FOSTER or CHERISH.
Does the tense of 'maintain' matter in crossword clues?
Yes, absolutely! If the clue is 'maintained' (past tense), your answer should also be in the past tense (e.g., KEPT, HELD). If the clue suggests an ongoing action (e.g., 'maintaining'), the answer might be a gerund or present participle (e.g., KEEPING, HOLDING). Always match the tense and part of speech of the clue.