undermine crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "undermine" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "undermine crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SAP: To gradually weaken or destroy someone's strength or confidence.
5 Letters
ERODE: To gradually destroy or wear away (something).
6 Letters
WEAKEN: To make or become weaker.
7 Letters
SUBVERT: To undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution.
More About "undermine crossword"
"Undermine" is a versatile word that finds its way into crosswords in many contexts. It literally means to dig beneath something, often to cause it to collapse or fall. Figuratively, it refers to weakening something gradually or insidiously. This could be a person's confidence, an institution's authority, or the structural integrity of an argument or building.
In crossword puzzles, clues like "undermine" often require you to think about synonyms that capture this sense of gradual degradation, weakening, or sabotage. The challenge lies in considering the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends, which can sometimes be hinted at by other words in the clue or the context of the puzzle itself.
Being familiar with common synonyms across different word lengths is key to solving these types of clues efficiently. Whether it's about diminishing strength, authority, or physical structure, the core meaning of 'undermine' is about a subtle yet impactful reduction or destruction.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For "undermine," always brainstorm words that mean to weaken, erode, or subvert. Consider both direct and indirect synonyms.
- Check Letter Count: The length of the answer is your best friend. If you have "undermine" and know it's a 3-letter word, you can quickly narrow it down to options like SAP.
- Consider Context: If other words in the clue or grid hint at a specific domain (e.g., politics, building, health), it can guide your choice of synonym.
- Use Cross-References: If you've filled in some letters from intersecting words, use those letters as anchors to guess the "undermine" answer more accurately.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "undermine" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "undermine" typically refers to weakening, eroding, subverting, or secretly attempting to destroy something or someone's authority, reputation, or structure. Common answers include synonyms for these actions.
Are there common synonyms for "undermine" used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms that frequently appear as answers for "undermine" clues include SAP, ERODE, WEAKEN, SUBVERT, IMPAIR, and similar words related to gradual damage or destruction.
How do I approach solving clues related to actions like "undermine"?
When encountering clues like "undermine," consider the nuance of the action. Is it gradual (erode, sap)? Is it about authority (subvert)? Look at the number of letters required and any already filled letters in the grid to narrow down the possibilities. Thinking about both direct and figurative meanings can also help.