take away crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on "take away 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 helpful explanations to get you back on track and solving your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "take away crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
MINUS: To subtract or deduct from a total.
LOWER: To reduce in amount, extent, or intensity.
6 Letters
DEDUCT: To subtract or take away from a total.
REMOVE: To take something away from a place or position.
REDUCE: To make something smaller or less in amount.
LESSEN: To diminish in extent, quantity, or intensity.
8 Letters
SUBTRACT: To take away a number or amount from another.
DECREASE: To make or become smaller or fewer in amount, extent, or intensity.
9 Letters
ELIMINATE: To completely remove or get rid of something.
More About "take away crossword clue"
"Take away" is a classic crossword clue that often points to words related to reduction, subtraction, or removal. It can appear in various contexts, from mathematical operations to physical displacement. Understanding the nuances of this phrase is key to unlocking many puzzles, as the exact synonym required will depend heavily on the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the crossword.
Crossword setters love to play with words that have multiple meanings, and "take away" is a prime example. While its primary sense is to diminish or remove, it can also subtly hint at things like ordering food for consumption elsewhere (takeaway food) or even abstract concepts like 'taking away' a right or privilege. Always consider both literal and figurative interpretations when this clue appears.
When you encounter "take away," think broadly about actions that result in less of something, or something being no longer present. From simple arithmetic (minus, deduct) to more forceful actions (remove, eliminate), the range of possible answers is quite diverse, making it a versatile and sometimes tricky clue to solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The most crucial hint is always the number of letters. For "take away," knowing if it's a 5-letter or an 8-letter word immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Don't solve in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are invaluable. If you have a few letters already filled in, they will often reveal the correct "take away" answer.
- Consider Different Synonyms: Think beyond the obvious. While DEDUCT or REMOVE might be first thoughts, also consider less common but still valid synonyms like LESSEN, DECREASE, or even specific terms depending on the puzzle's theme.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: Sometimes "take away" might be part of a wordplay clue. Keep an eye out for clues that sound like "take away" or could pun on the phrase.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "take away" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "take away" often implies subtraction, removal, or reduction. It can lead to answers like DEDUCT, SUBTRACT, REMOVE, or even less direct synonyms depending on the context.
Are there common traps with "take away" clues?
Yes, sometimes "take away" can refer to a specific item being removed from a word (e.g., "Take A from TRAVEL" = TRVEL). Always consider if the clue is asking for a synonym or an operation on letters.
How do I find the correct length for a "take away" clue?
The number of letters in the grid space will tell you the required length. Check common synonyms like REMOVE (6), DEDUCT (6), SUBTRACT (8), or MINUS (5) to see which fits. Context from intersecting words is crucial.