pilfers crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "pilfers crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all the possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. Dive in to find your answer and get back to enjoying your crossword!
Solutions for "pilfers crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NICK: To steal something, especially something of small value, often quickly or stealthily.
5 Letters
LOOTS: To steal goods, typically on a large scale, during a war, riot, or disaster, though it can also imply general stealing.
6 Letters
STEALS: The most direct and common synonym for taking another person's property without permission or legal right.
RIFLES: To search through something (like a drawer or pocket) thoroughly, usually in order to steal items, often causing disorder in the process.
7 Letters
FILCHES: To steal something, especially something of small value, in a casual or petty way, often without being noticed.
More About "pilfers crossword clue"
"Pilfers" is a verb that describes the act of stealing, particularly when the items taken are of little value or the act is done in a casual, petty, or stealthy manner. Unlike grand larceny, pilfering suggests a series of small, perhaps unnoticed thefts. This nuance is important for crossword solvers, as it guides them toward specific synonyms that capture this subtle meaning.
In crosswords, clues like "pilfers" often test your vocabulary for synonyms that share a core meaning but vary in connotation or the scale of the action. Recognizing these distinctions can help you narrow down potential answers. For instance, while "steals" is a general term, "nicks" or "filches" more closely align with the petty nature implied by "pilfers."
Keep an eye out for clues that might indicate a specific context—for example, "pilfers from a shop" might lean towards "shoplifts," though "pilfers" itself is more general. Understanding the common synonyms and their slight variations is key to successfully cracking clues centered around the act of petty theft.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and focuses your search.
- Brainstorm Synonyms and Context: For clues like "pilfers," think of all possible synonyms. Then, consider if the clue implies any specific context (e.g., small items, stealthy action) that might narrow down your synonym list.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to confirm or deny potential answers. This is especially useful when multiple synonyms have the same length.
- Think About Verb Tense: Pay attention to the tense of the clue. "Pilfers" (present tense) suggests an answer like STEALS, NICK, LOOTS, FILCHES, etc., not STOLE or NICKED.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'pilfers' mean in a crossword context?
'Pilfers' in a crossword clue typically refers to the act of stealing, often implying something of small value or doing so in a petty, casual, or stealthy manner. Look for synonyms like 'nick,' 'steal,' 'loot,' or 'filch' as potential answers.
Are there common synonyms for 'pilfers' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'pilfers' frequently appearing in crosswords include STEALS, NICK, LOOTS, FILCHES, and RIFLES. The specific answer will depend on the required letter count.
How do I know the correct length for a 'pilfers' answer?
The correct length for a 'pilfers' answer, like any crossword clue, is determined by the number of empty squares in the grid. Crossword puzzles indicate the exact number of letters needed for each answer in parentheses next to the clue, or by the grid itself.