purloin crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the "purloin" crossword clue? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find all the possible answers for this common clue, sorted by the number of letters, along with concise explanations to help you understand the nuance of each solution. Get ready to complete your puzzle with ease!
Solutions for "purloin crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ROB: To take property unlawfully, often by force or threat.
4 Letters
LIFT: An informal term for stealing, often quietly or quickly.
5 Letters
STEAL: The general act of taking another person's property without permission or legal right.
FILCH: To pilfer or steal, especially something of small value, in a casual way.
SWIPE: To steal (something, especially something of small value).
PINCH: To steal (something, typically of small value or in a casual way).
6 Letters
PILFER: To steal (things of small value), especially in a casual or petty way.
8 Letters
EMBEZZLE: To steal or misappropriate (money placed in one's trust or belonging to one's employer).
More About "purloin crossword clue"
"Purloin" is a classic crossword clue that often appears due to its slightly formal or archaic feel, allowing for a variety of common, shorter synonyms. Derived from Old French, meaning "to put far away" or "to take away," it consistently points towards acts of theft or dishonest acquisition. When you encounter "purloin" in a puzzle, think about the essence of taking something that doesn't belong to you without permission.
The beauty of this clue for crossword setters lies in its versatility. It can lead to common three-letter answers like ROB, or expand to longer words such as EMBEZZLE, depending on the grid's requirements. Understanding the core meaning, and being aware of its numerous synonyms, is key to cracking these types of clues efficiently. Always consider the length of the blank spaces first to narrow down your options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the crossword grid. This immediately filters out many incorrect answers for "purloin" and similar clues.
- Check Cross-References: If a clue isn't immediately obvious, look at intersecting words. Even one or two confirmed letters can significantly help you deduce the correct answer for "purloin" or any other difficult clue.
- Consider Nuance: While many answers for "purloin" mean 'to steal', some carry specific nuances (e.g., PILFER for small items, EMBEZZLE for entrusted funds). The puzzle's theme or other clues might hint at these specifics.
- Think of Homophones/Homographs: Sometimes clues for words like "purloin" might subtly refer to words that sound alike or are spelled similarly but have different meanings. However, for "purloin" itself, it's usually a direct synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'purloin' mean in the context of a crossword?
In crosswords, 'purloin' typically means to steal, pilfer, or appropriate something, often in a quiet, subtle, or dishonest manner. It's a verb suggesting the unlawful taking of property.
Are there common synonyms for 'purloin' used in crosswords?
Yes, common crossword answers for 'purloin' include shorter synonyms like ROB, LIFT, STEAL, FILCH, SWIPE, and PINCH. Longer possibilities could be PILFER or EMBEZZLE, depending on the number of letters required.
How can I figure out the letter count for 'purloin' answers?
The number of letters needed for a 'purloin' answer will be indicated by the spaces in your crossword grid. Match the known letters or the provided length to our list of possible solutions to find the correct fit for your puzzle.