refuse crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "refuse crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive solutions, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "refuse crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
NIX: To forbid or refuse to allow something, often used informally.
4 Letters
DENY: To state that something is not true, or to refuse to admit or grant.
SNUB: To ignore or reject someone or something disdainfully.
5 Letters
SPURN: To reject with disdain or contempt, often implying a strong emotional dismissal.
FORGO: To refrain from having, using, or enjoying something desirable; to do without.
6 Letters
REJECT: To dismiss as inadequate, unacceptable, or faulty; to refuse to accept.
ESCHEW: To deliberately avoid using; abstain from.
7 Letters
DECLINE: To politely refuse to accept or do something, often implies a courteous rejection.
More About "refuse crossword clue"
The word "refuse" is a fascinating clue in crosswords because of its dual nature. Most commonly, it refers to the act of saying no, rejecting, or declining something. This is the sense you see in answers like DENY, REJECT, or DECLINE. However, a clever crossword constructor might also use "refuse" to mean 'waste' or 'rubbish,' as in "municipal refuse" or "kitchen refuse." This second meaning can often trip up solvers, so it's always worth considering both possibilities when this clue appears.
Understanding the nuances of "refuse" is key to mastering these types of clues. The context of other solved letters in the puzzle will usually guide you to the correct interpretation, but being aware of the alternative meaning can save you from getting stuck. Pay attention to the number of letters required for the answer, as different synonyms will fit different lengths.
Whether you're dealing with a flat-out rejection or a pile of discarded material, our goal is to provide you with all the angles and potential answers so you can confidently fill in those squares.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: For clues like "refuse," always think about less common or alternative definitions. "Refuse" as in 'waste' is a classic example of how setters create challenging clues.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Even if you think of several synonyms for "refuse," only one will fit the given length.
- Look at Intersecting Words: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues to narrow down possibilities. If an answer starting with 'D' is needed, 'DENY' or 'DECLINE' become much stronger candidates.
- Think About Tone: Does the puzzle seem formal or informal? This can hint whether 'DECLINE' (formal) or 'NIX' (informal) is the better fit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'refuse' in crosswords?
Common crossword synonyms for 'refuse' often include DENY, REJECT, DECLINE, SPURN, ESCHEW, NIX, and FORGO, varying by letter count and nuance.
How does the clue 'refuse' relate to 'waste' in crosswords?
While 'refuse' can mean to reject or decline, it also has a lesser-known meaning as 'discarded matter' or 'waste,' as in garbage. This double meaning is a classic crossword setter's trick, so always consider both interpretations when stuck.
What strategies help when a 'refuse' clue has many possible answers?
When facing multiple possibilities for 'refuse,' check intersecting letters from other clues. Also, consider the specific publication or setter's style; some favor more common synonyms, while others might use the 'waste' meaning for a challenge. The letter count is always a critical filter.