mutilate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "mutilate crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "mutilate crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To spoil or disfigure something, often in a way that suggests damage or imperfection.
4 Letters
MAIM: To inflict a severe injury, especially one that permanently damages a part of the body.
6 Letters
INJURE: To cause harm or damage to someone or something, often physically.
9 Letters
DISFIGURE: To spoil the appearance of something or someone, often permanently.
More About "mutilate crossword clue"
The word "mutilate" implies severe damage, often to the point of disfigurement or rendering something useless. In crossword puzzles, clues like "mutilate" can be challenging because they have a range of synonyms that vary in intensity and length. Common answers often revolve around words that describe causing injury, spoiling appearance, or rendering something imperfect or broken.
When encountering "mutilate" as a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a gentle synonym for "spoil" or a more intense one like "maim" or "disfigure"? Checking the number of letters required and any already-filled-in intersecting letters will significantly narrow down the possibilities. This approach helps you move from the general concept of "mutilate" to the precise word the puzzle constructor had in mind.
Understanding the nuances between terms like "mar" (to spoil the appearance of), "injure" (to cause physical harm), and "maim" (to cause permanent, severe injury) is key. Crossword constructors often play on these subtle differences, so a broad vocabulary related to damage and alteration will serve you well.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This is your most powerful filter for potential answers, turning a broad search into a targeted one.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: If part of the word is already filled in from intersecting clues, look for common prefixes (e.g., 'UN-', 'RE-') or suffixes (e.g., '-ED', '-ING') that might complete a known synonym for "mutilate."
- Consider the Puzzle's Tone: Some crosswords are more straightforward, while others use puns or highly specific terminology. If the clue seems too simple, there might be a trick. For "mutilate," think about both direct synonyms and more metaphorical ones if the puzzle leans that way.
- Use a Thesaurus (Carefully): A thesaurus can be a great tool, but be selective. Not all synonyms will fit the exact crossword context. Focus on words that directly relate to the common usage of "mutilate" and fit the letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "mutilate" mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, "mutilate" often refers to synonyms like disfigure, harm, injure, or maim, indicating an action that damages or spoils something. The exact answer will depend on the available letters and specific nuance of the clue.
Are there short answers for "mutilate" in crosswords?
Yes, common short answers for "mutilate" can include MAR (3 letters), MAIM (4 letters), or HARM (4 letters), depending on the specific clue and the number of letters required.
How do I find the correct length for "mutilate" answers?
The crossword grid itself will indicate the required length for the answer. You'll need to match a synonym of "mutilate" that fits that exact number of letters and also corresponds with any intersecting letters you've already filled in.