refused crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the "refused" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "refused crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
NAYED: Voted against or said "nay" (often archaic or formal).
6 Letters
DENIED: Stated that something was not true or refused to allow.
SAIDNO: Simply stated a refusal to something.
7 Letters
SPURNED: Rejected with disdain or contempt.
8 Letters
DECLINED: A polite way of saying no; to refuse an offer or invitation.
REJECTED: Dismissed as inadequate, unacceptable, or not to one's taste.
More About "refused crossword clue"
The word "refused" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often pointing to various shades of denial or rejection. Clue setters love using it because it has several strong synonyms of different lengths, allowing for diverse puzzle constructions. It can appear as a straightforward synonym clue, or as part of more complex wordplay, where understanding the specific context of the refusal is key.
When you encounter "refused" in a crossword, think about whether the refusal is active (like declining an offer), passive (like denying an accusation), or emotional (like spurning an admirer). Each nuance can lead to a different correct answer. Consider the tense of the clue as well; "refused" implies past tense, so your answer should also be in a past tense form.
Crossword constructors might also use "refused" in a more abstract sense, perhaps referring to something that didn't work or didn't comply. By exploring all these possibilities, you increase your chances of finding the exact word the puzzle demands.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: While "refused" directly points to its synonyms, sometimes the clue might be inverted (e.g., "accepted and then refused") hinting at a word related to acceptance. Always consider the broadest range of related vocabulary.
- Match the word length precisely: This is your most powerful tool. If you have "refused" and the grid shows 6 letters, you can immediately narrow down your options to words like DENIED or SAIDNO. Always double-check your letter count.
- Look for specific indicators: Clues can offer subtle hints. Words like "politely," "strongly," or "historically" can guide you to specific types of "refused" answers like DECLINED, SPURNED, or NAYED.
- Analyze the surrounding clues: Sometimes, an answer to an intersecting clue can provide crucial letters that help you solve the "refused" clue, or vice versa. Don't solve in isolation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for "refused" in crosswords?
Common crossword synonyms for "refused" include DENIED, DECLINED, REJECTED, NAYED, SPURNED, and sometimes FORBADE, depending on the context and letter count.
How do clue setters make "refused" tricky in crosswords?
Clue setters might use indirect synonyms, phrasal verbs (like 'turned down'), or even anagrams/wordplay. They can also hint at different nuances of refusal, from a polite decline to a forceful rejection. The surrounding words in the clue are often crucial.
Are there different types of "refusal" words in puzzles?
Yes, puzzles often distinguish between types of refusal. You might see clues for a polite decline (DECLINED), a simple denial (DENIED), a strong rejection (SPURNED, REJECTED), or even a historical/formal vote against something (NAYED). Paying attention to the tone of the clue helps.