stretch crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "stretch", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you're working on a daily crossword or a challenging cryptic, we're here to provide quick and accurate assistance.
Solutions for "stretch crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
YAWN: To open one's mouth wide and inhale deeply due to tiredness or boredom, a common human stretch.
5 Letters
REACH: To extend an arm or other part of the body in a particular direction to touch or grasp something.
6 Letters
EXTEND: To lengthen or widen, or to prolong in time or space.
EXPAND: To become or make larger or more extensive, often by stretching or inflating.
8 Letters
ELONGATE: To make something longer, often by stretching it.
More About "stretch crossword clue"
"Stretch" is a highly versatile word that frequently appears in crossword puzzles due to its multiple meanings and applications. It can refer to a physical act, like extending a limb, or a period of time, such as "a stretch in prison." It can also describe a geographical area, as in "a stretch of land." This semantic breadth makes it a favorite among crossword constructors looking to create clues that encourage solvers to think broadly.
Understanding the context is crucial when encountering "stretch" in a puzzle. The surrounding clues, the number of letters in the answer, and even the puzzle's theme can all provide vital hints. For instance, if the puzzle features clues related to exercise, "stretch" might point to a physical movement. If the theme involves time, then a duration-related answer would be more appropriate.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Parts of Speech: Determine if "stretch" is being used as a verb (to lengthen, to pull) or a noun (a period, an area). This can significantly narrow down the possibilities.
- Look for Synonyms and Related Concepts: Think beyond direct synonyms. For "stretch," words like expand, extend, reach, or even yawn are common. Also consider related ideas like flexibility or duration.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: Even if you're unsure of the exact word for "stretch," filling in letters from intersecting clues can reveal the correct answer by limiting the possibilities to words that fit the existing pattern.
- Think of Figurative Meanings: Crossword constructors often use words in idiomatic or less literal ways. "A bit of a stretch" could imply an exaggeration, leading to answers you might not immediately consider.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "stretch" have so many different answers in crosswords?
"Stretch" is a versatile word in English, functioning as both a verb and a noun with multiple meanings (to lengthen, to reach, a period of time, an area). Crossword constructors leverage this versatility to create challenging clues, often requiring solvers to consider the specific context implied by other clues or the puzzle's theme.
How do I know if "stretch" refers to a physical action or a period of time?
Look at the other clues in the puzzle. If there are clues related to fitness, exercise, or body parts, it likely refers to a physical action (e.g., YAWN, EXTEND). If the puzzle has a theme about time, duration, or prisons (a 'stretch' in prison), then answers like SPAN or PERIOD might be more appropriate. The letter count of the answer will also be a strong hint.
Are there any common trick answers for "stretch"?
Sometimes "stretch" can be used colloquially, like "a bit of a stretch" meaning 'a fabrication' (leading to answers like GAG or LIE). It can also refer to a 'stretch of land' or 'road', leading to answers like AREA or SPAN. Always consider idiomatic expressions and less common definitions.