possesses crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "possesses," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "possesses crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
HAS: The most common short answer for 'possesses,' simply meaning to own or have something.
4 Letters
OWNS: To have something as one's property; a direct synonym for possesses.
5 Letters
HOLDS: Can mean to have, keep, or occupy, often implying a grasp or control.
KEEPS: To retain possession of; to store or maintain something.
8 Letters
CONTROLS: To have power over; a more active form of possession, especially regarding systems or situations.
More About "possesses crossword clue"
"Possesses" is a versatile verb in the English language, and consequently, in crossword puzzles. Its primary meaning revolves around ownership or the act of having something, whether tangible property, an abstract quality, or even a position of power. Crossword setters frequently use direct synonyms like "has" or "owns," but they can also employ words that imply possession, such as "holds" or "keeps," depending on the nuance of the clue.
When you encounter "possesses" in a crossword, it's essential to consider the context. Is it referring to physical objects, a characteristic (e.g., "possesses courage"), or even a state of being (e.g., "possesses a secret")? The answer often hinges on the specific connotation required by the grid and other interlocking letters.
Sometimes, the clue might be a clever wordplay on "possesses," using homophones or idiomatic expressions. Always keep an open mind to different interpretations and the exact number of letters required for the solution. Being familiar with a range of synonyms and implied meanings will greatly assist in cracking such clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Synonyms: The most straightforward approach is to think of direct synonyms for "possesses" that fit the letter count, such as HAS, OWNS, HOLDS, or KEEPS.
- Consider Nuance and Context: If the clue is more complex, think about what kind of thing is being possessed. Is it a physical item, a quality, or a position? This can help narrow down the possibilities to more specific verbs like COMMANDS or EXERCISES.
- Check for Related Phrases: Sometimes, "possesses" might be part of a larger, implied phrase. For example, if the clue is "Possesses an advantage," the answer might involve a verb that implies having that advantage.
- Work with Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to guide your choices. Even one letter can eliminate many potential answers and confirm others.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a common synonym for "possesses" often used in crosswords?
One of the most common and shortest synonyms for "possesses" found in crosswords is "HAS." Other frequent answers include "OWNS" and "HOLDS."
How does the word length affect the answer for "possesses"?
The length of the answer is crucial. For instance, a three-letter space would likely point to "HAS," while a four-letter space might be "OWNS." Longer spaces could lead to words like "HOLDS," "KEEPS," or even more nuanced synonyms like "CONTROLS" or "EXERCISES."
Are there any tricky uses of "possesses" in crossword clues?
Yes, sometimes 'possesses' can refer to abstract qualities rather than physical objects, such as 'possesses courage' (HAS COURAGE). It can also be part of a phrase, so always consider the context and surrounding words in the clue for subtle hints.