takes over crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with "takes over" in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Find all possible solutions sorted by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "takes over crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
GRABS: To seize suddenly or roughly, implying an act of taking control quickly.
6 Letters
SEIZES: To take hold of something suddenly and forcibly, often implying control or possession.
USURPS: To take a position of power or importance illegally or by force, a strong form of taking over.
7 Letters
ASSUMES: To take on a role, responsibility, or appearance, often implying a change of leadership or function.
8 Letters
ACQUIRES: To gain possession of something, often property, assets, or even control of a company.
SUCCEEDS: To take over a throne, office, or other position, implying a rightful or designated transition.
More About "takes over crossword clue"
The phrase "takes over" is a versatile one in the English language, which makes it a frequent, yet sometimes tricky, crossword clue. Its meaning can range from physical appropriation to assuming a new role or responsibility, or even gaining control through a forceful or illegal act. When solving, consider the broader context of the puzzle and any accompanying words in the clue.
For instance, "takes over" could imply a legitimate succession (like a new manager taking over a department) or a hostile takeover (as in a corporate acquisition or a military coup). The subtle differences in these scenarios are often what separate "assumes" from "usurps," or "acquires" from "seizes." Pay close attention to the number of letters provided and how the clue might be hinting at a specific nuance.
Crossword setters love to play on these multiple meanings. By understanding the various interpretations of "takes over," you'll be better equipped to pinpoint the exact answer they are looking for, whether it implies continuity, an abrupt change, or a transfer of authority.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always read the full clue carefully. Is there a specific tone, a proper noun, or another word that might narrow down the meaning of "takes over"? For example, "takes over illegally" immediately points to words like USURPS.
- Check Letter Count First: Use the given letter count to immediately filter your potential answers. If the clue is for 6 letters, you can rule out a 7-letter word like ASSUMES right away.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm different synonyms for "takes over" (e.g., assumes, seizes, replaces, inherits, controls) and then see which ones fit the provided letter count. Sometimes thinking of the opposite can also spark ideas.
- Mind the Tense and Number: "Takes over" is present tense, third person singular. This means your answer will likely be a verb ending in -S (like SEIZES, ASSUMES, USURPS), unless it's a gerund or a noun derived from the verb, which the clue would usually specify.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between "assumes" and "usurps" in crosswords?
"Assumes" implies taking on a role or responsibility, often legitimately (e.g., "assumes control of the project"). "Usurps" specifically means taking power or a position illegally or by force (e.g., "usurps the throne"). The nuance in the clue will often hint at which answer is correct.
How can I tell if "takes over" refers to possession or control?
Look for adjectives or adverbs in the clue (e.g., "takes over *firmly*," "takes over *illegally*") or related themes in the puzzle. If the clue mentions an organization or a position, it's likely control. If it refers to an object, it might be possession. The specific context provided by the full clue is crucial for disambiguation.
Are there common word endings for answers to "takes over"?
Since "takes over" is in the present tense (third person singular), common answers often end in -S, such as "assumes," "seizes," and "usurps." Always check the tense of the clue when looking for answers, as a past tense clue ("took over") would require a different form.