weaken crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with "weaken" in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers for the clue "weaken", categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "weaken crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SAP: To drain of strength or vitality from someone or something.
5 Letters
ERODE: To wear away or diminish gradually, often through natural processes or a continuous adverse influence.
6 Letters
DILUTE: To make (a liquid) thinner or weaker by adding another substance, typically water.
IMPAIR: To weaken or damage something, especially a human faculty or function.
LESSEN: To diminish in size, amount, or intensity.
8 Letters
UNDERCUT: To undermine the position of someone or something, often subtly, or to sell goods cheaper than a competitor.
ENFEEBLE: To make weak or feeble; to deprive of strength.
DECREASE: To make or become less in size, amount, or extent.
9 Letters
ATTENUATE: To reduce the force, effect, or value of something; to make weaker or less potent.
10 Letters
DEBILITATE: To make someone very weak and infirm, often due to illness or a challenging situation.
More About "weaken crossword clue"
The clue "weaken" is a versatile term in the world of crosswords, as it can refer to a multitude of scenarios from physical degradation to a decline in influence or resolve. Puzzle setters love to use such words because they open up a broad range of synonymous answers, challenging solvers to think broadly about context. Whether it's a direct synonym for making something less strong or a more nuanced term like undermining, understanding the different facets of "weaken" is key to finding the correct solution.
When you encounter this clue, consider not just the literal meaning but also figurative uses. For instance, 'to weaken an argument' would lead to different answers than 'to weaken a structure'. Paying attention to the other clues in the puzzle that intersect with your "weaken" answer can often provide the necessary context or letter patterns to confirm your choice. This strategic approach will help you navigate ambiguous clues and complete your puzzle successfully.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Part of Speech: Is "weaken" used as a verb (e.g., to make something weaker) or potentially an implied noun (e.g., the act of weakening)? Most often it's a verb, but subtle clues can hint otherwise.
- Think About Context: Does the puzzle's theme or other clues suggest a specific type of weakening (e.g., emotional, physical, financial)? This can narrow down your options significantly.
- Check for Prefixes/Suffixes: Some common answers for "weaken" might start with prefixes like DE- or UN- (e.g., DECREASE, UNDERCUT), or end with suffixes that imply action.
- Test Different Letter Lengths: Don't get stuck on one length. If your initial thought doesn't fit, try alternatives for different letter counts, as shown above.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "weaken" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "weaken" clues can refer to making something less strong, effective, or intense. Answers can range from physical acts like 'DILUTE' or 'ERODE' to more metaphorical senses like 'SAP' (as in, to sap energy) or 'UNDERCUT' (to weaken an argument or position). The key is to consider all possible synonyms for diminishing strength.
How can I find common synonyms for "weaken" in crosswords?
When encountering a "weaken" clue, think about words that imply reduction, lessening, draining, undermining, or debilitating. Consider the context – is it physical strength, an argument, a liquid, or a resolve? Common prefixes like 'de-' or 'un-' can also be hints. Sometimes, the answer might be a less obvious verb like 'SAP' or 'IMPAIR'.
Are there common traps for "weaken" clues in crosswords?
Yes, common traps include multi-meaning words (e.g., 'SAP' can be a noun or a verb), and words that describe a gradual process ('ERODE') versus a sudden one. Also, setters might use less common synonyms or words that are technically correct but not immediately obvious. Always check the number of letters and any intersecting words to confirm your choice.