start crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "start crossword clue" and need a little push to get across the finish line, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible solutions, along with their explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "start crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OPEN: To begin or unseal something, often used in contexts like "open a discussion" or "open a new business".
5 Letters
BEGIN: The most direct synonym for 'start', referring to the act of commencing an activity or process.
ONSET: Often used to describe the beginning of something, especially something unpleasant, like the "onset of winter" or "onset of symptoms".
6 Letters
LAUNCH: To set in motion, initiate, or propel, particularly common for projects, products, or vehicles.
8 Letters
INITIATE: To cause something to begin; to originate or formally introduce a process or action.
More About "start crossword clue"
The clue "start crossword clue" is a classic example of a common type of crossword puzzle prompt that asks for a synonym of 'begin', 'commence', or 'initiate'. These clues are fundamental to many puzzles, appearing in various forms from simple direct synonyms to more nuanced and cryptic indications. Recognizing the core meaning of 'start' and its many linguistic relatives is a key skill for any crossword solver.
Crossword setters frequently use words like 'start' because they have a rich array of synonyms and can be applied to countless contexts—from the start of a race to the start of a new chapter in life. This versatility allows for creative clueing, pushing solvers to think beyond the obvious and consider different shades of meaning or common idioms. Paying attention to the word length requested is crucial, as it often narrows down the possibilities significantly.
When you encounter 'start' as part of a longer clue, consider how it interacts with other words. For instance, "Start of a journey" might lead to 'ONSET' or 'OUTSET', while "Start a fire" could point to 'LIGHT' or 'IGNITE'. The context provided by the rest of the clue is your best friend in determining the exact answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms Broadly: For clues like "start," don't just think of direct synonyms. Consider phrases or related concepts like 'kick off', 'set in motion', 'originate', or 'break ground'.
- Check Word Length: Always use the given word length as your primary filter. It's the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on the answers that fit.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is the clue looking for a noun (e.g., ONSET) or a verb (e.g., BEGIN)? The phrasing of the clue often gives this away.
- Look for Common Phrases: Many crossword answers come from common idioms or phrases. "Start" can be part of "start over," "start up," etc., which might be hinted at.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'start' typically imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'start' often signals the beginning of something – an action, a journey, a period, or even a literal initial point. It can hint at verbs like 'BEGIN', 'COMMENCE', or 'LAUNCH', or nouns like 'ONSET' or 'OUTSET'. Context is key to determining the exact nuance.
Are there common synonyms for 'start' used in crosswords?
Absolutely! Crossword setters love to use synonyms. Besides direct terms like BEGIN or OPEN, you might encounter 'commence', 'initiate', 'originate', 'kick off', 'commencement', 'outset', 'genesis', or even more cryptic indications like 'get going' or 'break ground'.
How can I distinguish between 'start' and 'origin' in a clue?
'Start' usually refers to the initial action or point in time of an event or process. 'Origin' often points to the source, root, or beginning *cause* of something. While closely related, 'origin' can sometimes imply a deeper, foundational beginning rather than just the commencement of an action. Pay attention to whether the clue hints at an action (start) or a source (origin).