take a breather crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on "take a breather crossword," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "take a breather crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
REST: To cease from work or activity in order to relax, refresh oneself, or recover strength. A very common and direct synonym for taking a breather.
5 Letters
PAUSE: A temporary stop in action or speech. Often implies a brief interlude to catch one's breath or gather thoughts.
RELAX: To make or become less tense or rigid; to rest from work or effort. Directly aligns with the idea of taking a break to unwind.
6 Letters
UNWIND: To relax after a period of work or tension. A more informal term but highly suitable for "taking a breather."
More About "take a breather crossword"
"Take a breather" is a common idiom meaning to pause, rest, or relax for a short period, especially after exertion or stress. In crosswords, clues based on idioms can sometimes be tricky because the answer isn't always a direct, literal translation. Instead, solvers need to think of synonyms or related concepts that capture the essence of the idiom's meaning.
For this specific clue, the core idea revolves around temporary cessation of activity for recovery or relaxation. Crossword setters often use such phrases to test a solver's vocabulary depth and their ability to interpret idiomatic expressions into concise, fitting words. Always consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you might already have to narrow down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always consider the overall theme of the crossword if there is one, as well as the specific phrasing of the clue. "Take a breather" might imply a physical rest in one puzzle, and a mental one in another.
- Letter Count First: Before thinking of any specific words, use the given letter count to immediately filter out answers that don't fit. This is the most crucial first step.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If you have any letters filled in from crossing words, use them as strong hints. They can quickly confirm or rule out potential solutions, making your choice much easier.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For action-oriented clues like this, brainstorm as many synonyms for 'rest,' 'pause,' and 'relax' as possible. Sometimes, knowing the opposite can also spark an idea.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "take a breather" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "take a breather" typically points to words meaning to rest, relax, or temporarily stop an activity. Common answers include synonyms for these actions, often referring to a break from physical or mental exertion.
How do I find synonyms for "take a breather"?
To find synonyms, think about actions associated with resting. Consider words like 'pause', 'stop', 'chill', 'relax', 'unwind', or 'repose'. Also, consider phrasal verbs or less common synonyms depending on the clue's difficulty.
Are "take a breather" clues usually short or long answers?
Clues like "take a breather" can lead to both short and longer answers. Common short answers are 'REST' (4 letters) or 'PAUSE' (5 letters), while longer ones might be 'RELAX' (5 letters), 'UNWIND' (6 letters), or even 'DECOMPRESS' (10 letters), depending on the specific puzzle.