pilfers crossword – All Crossword Answers
Are you stuck on "pilfers crossword"? You've come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive list of solutions for this tricky clue, organized by letter count to help you quickly find the exact word you need. Dive in to unlock your puzzle!
Solutions for "pilfers crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NABS: To quickly and surreptitiously take or steal something, often of small value.
5 Letters
STEAL: To take (another person's property) without permission or legal right and without intending to return it.
7 Letters
FILCHES: To pilfer or steal, especially something of small value, often repeatedly.
More About "pilfers crossword"
The verb "pilfer" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often appearing due to its rich set of synonyms. While it generally means to steal, it frequently carries the connotation of petty theft, often involving small amounts or items. This nuance can sometimes be key to differentiating it from more general terms like "steal" or "take." Crossword setters love words like "pilfer" because they allow for a variety of answers depending on the specific context and letter count, challenging solvers to think broadly about synonyms and their subtle differences.
When "pilfers" appears in a clue, consider the tense and form of the word in the puzzle. Is it "pilfer" (infinitive), "pilfers" (third person singular), "pilfered" (past tense), or "pilfering" (present participle)? This will guide you to the correct grammatical form of your answer. Additionally, the surrounding letters in the grid are your best friends, as they quickly narrow down the possibilities among the many synonyms of "pilfer."
The act of pilfering implies a certain stealth or casualness, often without the force or high stakes associated with a more significant "robbery" or "heist." This can sometimes be reflected in the answers, which might include words that suggest a quick, unassuming snatch rather than a grand larceny. Recognizing these subtle distinctions can be a powerful tool in cracking those challenging crossword clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Tense: Always check if the clue "pilfers" is singular, plural, past tense, or present participle. Your answer should match the grammatical form of the clue.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Before committing to an answer, double-check that its letter count precisely matches the available spaces in the grid.
- Look for Common Synonyms: Beyond the obvious, crossword setters often use less common but equally valid synonyms. Keep words like "FILCH," "PINCH," "SWIPE," and "LOOT" in mind.
- Use Intersecting Clues: The letters from intersecting words are invaluable. They can quickly confirm or deny a potential answer, especially when multiple synonyms are possible.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between "pilfer" and "steal" in crosswords?
While often interchangeable, "pilfer" usually implies petty or repeated theft of small items, whereas "steal" is broader and can refer to items of any value. Crossword setters might use this nuance to guide you to a specific answer.
How can context help when "pilfers" has multiple answers?
The context of other solved letters or adjacent clues is crucial. For example, if you have "N_BS", then "NABS" is a strong candidate. Also, the puzzle's theme or a specific setter's style can offer additional clues to narrow down possibilities.
Are there common "pilfers" synonyms that appear often in crosswords?
Yes, besides the obvious "STEAL" and "NAB", words like "FILCH", "PINCH", "SWIPE", and "LOOT" are frequent synonyms for pilfering that often appear in crosswords. Always pay attention to the exact letter count to match the word.