Ceases to exist (10) - Crossword Clue
Answer: DISAPPEARS
Understanding the Clue
- The phrase "ceases to exist" is a straightforward definition clue commonly found in both quick crosswords and cryptic puzzles.
- When you encounter this crossword clue, you're looking for a verb that describes the act of vanishing or becoming non-existent.
- The number (10) indicates you need a ten-letter word, which perfectly matches DISAPPEARS.
- This type of clue tests your vocabulary around words related to vanishing, elimination, and non-existence.
- Other related terms might include "vanishes," "evaporates," or "dissolves," but DISAPPEARS is the most common ten-letter solution for this specific wording.
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Start with letter count: The (10) tells you immediately that short answers like "ends" or "stops" won't work. Focus on longer synonyms.
- Consider the tense: "Ceases" is present tense, so your answer should match—DISAPPEARS rather than "disappeared."
- Look for crossing letters: If you have D_S_P_E_R_ from intersecting clues, the answer becomes much clearer.
- Think about common prefixes: Words starting with "dis-" often indicate reversal or negation, which aligns perfectly with "ceases to exist."
- Check the difficulty level: In easier puzzles, the clue will be more direct. In cryptic crosswords, there might be wordplay involved alongside the definition.
Ceases to exist (10) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is DISAPPEARS always the answer for "ceases to exist"?
A: While DISAPPEARS is the most common ten-letter answer, always verify with crossing letters. Context and puzzle difficulty can occasionally suggest alternatives like EVAPORATES.
Q: Can this clue appear in cryptic crosswords?
A: Yes, though cryptic versions might include additional wordplay. The straightforward definition is common in both quick and cryptic puzzles.
Q: What if my grid shows a different letter count?
A: Double-check your crossing answers first. If the clue genuinely has a different count, you may be looking at a variation that requires VANISHES (8), EVAPORATES (10), or another synonym.
Q: How do I improve at solving these definition-based clues?
A: Build your vocabulary around synonyms for common concepts like vanishing, appearing, existing, and changing. Practice with daily crosswords helps recognize setter patterns.
Q: Are there any tricks for remembering this answer?
A: Associate "ceases to exist" with the prefix "DIS-" (meaning reversal) + "APPEARS." Think: "what appears, then DIS-appears, eventually ceases to exist."
