relieve crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "relieve crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and move forward confidently.
Solutions for "relieve crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AID: To provide help or support, often to alleviate a burden or stress.
4 Letters
EASE: To make something less difficult, painful, or oppressive; to lessen tension.
HELP: To make it easier or possible for someone to do something; to assist in alleviating a problem.
5 Letters
ABATE: To become less intense or widespread; to reduce in amount or degree, as in pain or a storm.
ALLAY: To diminish or put at rest (fear, suspicion, or worry); to calm or pacify.
6 Letters
SOOTHE: To gently calm a person or their pain or discomfort; to mitigate or alleviate.
LESSEN: To make less or smaller in amount, degree, or size; to reduce.
7 Letters
LIGHTEN: To make something less heavy or burdensome; to alleviate a load, mood, or stress.
COMFORT: To ease the grief or distress of; to soothe or reassure someone in pain.
8 Letters
MITIGATE: To make less severe, serious, or painful; to lessen the gravity or impact of a situation.
UNBURDEN: To relieve (someone) of a burden, care, or trouble; to free from an obligation.
9 Letters
ALLEVIATE: To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe; to ease or lighten.
More About "relieve crossword clue"
The clue "relieve" is a common one in crosswords, often pointing to a wide array of synonyms related to lessening, easing, or comforting. At its core, "relieve" implies a reduction of something unpleasant, whether it's pain, stress, a burden, or even a responsibility. Depending on the puzzle's theme and the surrounding clues, the answer could range from simple, everyday words like 'EASE' or 'HELP' to more formal terms such as 'MITIGATE' or 'ALLEVIATE'.
In crosswords, 'relieve' can be clued directly as a synonym or indirectly through phrases that imply its meaning, such as "take a load off," "ease discomfort," or "make less severe." Pay close attention to the number of letters required and any intersecting words, as these are crucial in narrowing down the exact answer. Sometimes, 'relieve' might even refer to a change of guard or duty, requiring answers like 'REPLACE' or 'SUCCEED', which adds an interesting layer of misdirection.
Understanding the context is paramount. A clue like "relieve tension" will likely lead to different answers than "relieve a guard" or "relieve pain." Crossword setters love to play on these multiple meanings, so keeping an open mind about the various interpretations of "relieve" will significantly improve your chances of finding the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Specific Context: 'Relieve' can mean many things. Is the clue hinting at relief from pain, stress, a duty, or financial burden? This context often points to a specific set of synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from other clues. These are your best friends for confirming or eliminating potential answers for "relieve."
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes, 'relieve' might imply an action, not just a state. For example, "relieve a guard" could mean 'REPLACE' or 'SUCCEED'. Be open to these broader interpretations.
- Analyze Word Length: The number of letters is a critical constraint. If you're stuck, list out all possible synonyms for 'relieve' and then filter them by length. This can often reveal the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the correct "relieve" answer when there are multiple options?
The key is to use intersecting letters from other clues. Also, consider the specific context of the clue – is it about physical pain, stress, a duty, or a financial burden? This will help narrow down the most fitting synonym.
What are common themes for "relieve" in crosswords?
Common themes include emotional states (e.g., 'relieve anxiety'), physical discomfort (e.g., 'relieve pain'), military or work duties (e.g., 'relieve the guard'), or financial burdens (e.g., 'relieve debt'). Each context can suggest different synonyms.
Can "relieve" ever mean "replace" in a crossword?
Yes, absolutely! In specific contexts, particularly military, security, or shift-work scenarios, "relieve" can mean to take over someone's duty or position. For example, 'relieve the sentry' could lead to answers like 'REPLACE' or 'SUCCEED', adding a layer of complexity to the clue.