stake crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "stake crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "stake crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BET: A sum of money or something valuable risked on an outcome of a game or race.
4 Letters
POST: A sturdy upright pole, often pointed, driven into the ground to mark a boundary or support something.
RISK: The possibility of suffering harm or loss, often what is at issue in a wager or situation.
POLE: A long, slender, rounded piece of wood or metal, which can serve as a stake.
5 Letters
WAGER: A more formal term for a bet, especially one involving a significant amount of money or consequence.
SHARE: An interest or portion, especially in a financial enterprise, often referred to as a 'stake' in a company.
More About "stake crossword clue"
The word "stake" is a fantastic example of a polysemous word, meaning it carries multiple related but distinct meanings, which makes it a popular choice for crossword setters. Understanding these different interpretations is key to solving the clue. It can refer to a literal physical object, such as a pointed stick used to mark a boundary or support a plant. Alternatively, it can denote a financial interest, like owning a share in a company, or the amount of money risked in a game of chance.
Furthermore, "stake" can also imply something that is at risk, such as one's reputation or future, where the "stakes are high." Crossword clues leverage these varied meanings, often requiring solvers to consider the precise context provided within the clue itself, or to match the word length with intersecting letters already filled in. Recognizing which definition the setter intends is the true challenge and joy of solving this type of clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue. "Gambler's stake" directs you toward a financial or risk-based answer, while "garden stake" suggests a physical object.
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the blank spaces with potential answers. This quickly narrows down your options, especially for a word like "stake" with many meanings.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Fill in any intersecting words you're confident about. These letters will provide crucial hints, often dictating which "stake" synonym fits the puzzle's grid.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, the most common meaning isn't the one intended. Be open to less frequent synonyms or more abstract interpretations, especially in harder puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'stake' have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word 'stake' is polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. In crosswords, it can refer to a literal wooden post, a financial interest, a wager or bet, or even something at risk. The setter's specific phrasing in the clue or surrounding letters will guide you to the correct interpretation.
How can I determine the correct 'stake' answer among multiple options?
To pinpoint the right answer, always consider the number of letters required. Also, look for additional contextual clues within the clue itself (e.g., 'gambler's stake' points to 'BET' or 'WAGER', while 'garden stake' points to 'POST' or 'POLE'). Cross-referencing with intersecting words you've already filled in is crucial.
Are there common synonyms for 'stake' in crossword clues?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms for 'stake' in crossword clues often include 'bet', 'wager', 'post', 'pole', 'interest', 'share', 'risk', 'gamble', and 'punt'. Being familiar with these variations will significantly help you solve related clues.