shred crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "shred", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "shred crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RIP: To tear or cut something quickly or violently.
4 Letters
TEAR: To pull or rip apart or into pieces with force.
RENT: A tear or split in a piece of fabric or paper.
5 Letters
MINCE: To cut up or grind (food, especially meat) into very small pieces.
GRATE: To reduce (food) to small shreds by rubbing it on a grater.
STRIP: To tear or pull off (something) in strips.
6 Letters
REDUCE: To make something smaller or less in amount, degree, or size, often by breaking it down.
TATTER: A torn piece of cloth or paper, or to tear or rip into such pieces.
8 Letters
MACERATE: To soften or break up (food, especially fruit) by steeping it in a liquid, often used in culinary contexts but can imply breaking down.
9 Letters
PULVERIZE: To reduce to fine particles, dust, or powder; to demolish completely.
More About "shred crossword clue"
"Shred" is a versatile word that often appears in crosswords, leading to a range of potential answers depending on the nuance implied by the clue. At its core, "shred" means to tear or cut into thin strips or small pieces. This can apply to paper (like with a document shredder), fabric, or even food preparation, such as shredding cheese or cabbage.
Crossword setters love "shred" because it allows for both literal and figurative interpretations. While answers like RIP, TEAR, and MINCE are direct synonyms, others like GRATE or PULVERIZE point to specific methods of shredding. Sometimes, "shred" can even imply a more destructive or diminishing action, leading to answers like REDUCE or TATTER. Always consider the context of the puzzle, including any other words in the clue or letters already filled in.
Understanding the different contexts in which "shred" can be used is crucial for selecting the correct answer. Whether you're dealing with a physical action, a culinary term, or a more abstract sense of breaking something down, keeping these varied meanings in mind will help you crack the clue every time.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For a clue like "shred," consider what kind of shredding it implies. Is it about paper, fabric, or food? This can narrow down options (e.g., 'grate' for food, 'rip' for paper).
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the known letter count from the grid to the potential answers. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most reliable method is to use the letters from intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can often reveal the correct "shred" answer.
- Consider Pluralization or Tense: Pay attention if the clue implies a plural answer or a specific verb tense (e.g., "shredded" vs. "to shred"). While our answers are generally singular/infinitive, the crossword might require a modification.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shred' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'shred' usually refers to the act of tearing, cutting, or breaking something into small, often irregular pieces. Common synonyms include tear, rip, mince, or grate, depending on the number of letters and the specific context of the surrounding clues.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'tear' and 'mince' for 'shred'?
The key lies in the letter count and surrounding cross-references. If the answer is 4 letters, 'TEAR' or 'RENT' are strong candidates. For 5 letters, 'MINCE' or 'GRATE' are likely. Also, consider the specific type of shredding implied: 'mince' often relates to food, while 'tear' or 'rip' might relate to paper or fabric.
Are there less common or trickier synonyms for 'shred' in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords love to use less obvious synonyms. For 'shred', you might encounter words like 'TATTER' (to make ragged), 'REDUCE' (to break down or diminish), or even more technical terms like 'MACERATE' (to soften by soaking). Always consider the less literal meanings if the common answers don't fit.