recede crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Looking for solutions to the 'recede' crossword clue? You've come to the right place! Find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills. Whether it's about tides, feelings, or general withdrawal, we have the answers you need.
Solutions for "recede crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
EBB: To flow back or decline, often used in relation to tides.
4 Letters
WANE: To decrease in strength, extent, or intensity; to diminish.
5 Letters
ABATE: To become less intense or widespread, to diminish.
7 Letters
RETREAT: To move back or withdraw from a position.
SUBSIDE: To become less intense, violent, or severe; to diminish.
More About "recede crossword clue"
The clue "recede" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various contexts. At its core, 'recede' implies moving back, withdrawing, or diminishing in intensity or size. This can refer to physical movement, such as a glacier or hairline receding, or to abstract concepts like feelings, sounds, or even economic trends. Puzzle setters frequently use synonyms like 'ebb,' 'wane,' 'subside,' 'abate,' 'retreat,' or 'withdraw' to hint at this action, making it crucial for solvers to consider the specific nuance of the clue and the number of letters required.
Understanding the different applications of 'recede' can significantly aid in solving. For instance, if the clue pertains to tides, 'EBB' is a highly probable answer. If it's about a feeling or light diminishing, 'WANE' might be the fit. Recognizing these subtle distinctions allows you to choose the most precise answer, especially when multiple synonyms might initially seem plausible. Always think about the broader context the crossword theme might suggest.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For words like 'recede,' consider if the clue implies a physical retreat, a lessening of intensity, or a gradual decline. This helps distinguish between synonyms like EBB (tides), WANE (light/feeling), or RETREAT (military/physical).
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the required letter count. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and narrow down your options significantly, especially for clues with multiple synonyms like 'recede.'
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues to confirm or rule out potential answers. This is a fundamental crossword strategy that is particularly effective when dealing with flexible clues.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love to use synonyms or less common interpretations. If a direct answer doesn't fit, consider metaphorical uses or less frequent definitions of 'recede' and its related terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'recede' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'recede' often refers to movement backward (like a hairline or glacier), a decrease in intensity (like a storm or pain), or the ebbing of a tide. Common synonyms include 'ebb,' 'wane,' 'subside,' 'abate,' or 'retreat,' depending on the nuance of the clue.
Are there common tricky clues for 'recede'?
Tricky clues for 'recede' might use less common synonyms or metaphorical language. For example, 'Go back' (EBB), 'Diminish' (WANE), 'Fall away' (ABATE), or 'Beat a hasty retreat' (RETREAT) could all point to similar concepts without explicitly stating 'recede.' Always consider the number of letters and intersecting words.
How do I narrow down answers when many words fit 'recede'?
To narrow down answers for 'recede,' first check the number of letters required. Then, examine any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Finally, pay close attention to subtle contextual hints in the clue itself – does it refer to water, emotions, or physical movement? This can guide you to the most precise synonym.