Introduce gradually (6) Crossword Clue
Answer: INSTIL (6 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Introduce gradually" with 6 letters is "INSTIL".Instil means to introduce an idea, habit, or quality gradually and gently into someone's mind or character. It is often used in education, parenting, or training, where values or knowledge are imparted slowly to ensure lasting understanding or influence.
Why “Instil” Fits
The clue asks for a single word (6 letters) meaning “introduce gradually.” The answer, INSTIL, fits exactly:
- Introduce gradually: Instil means to impart an idea, attitude, or quality little by little, often through persistent repetition or subtle influence.
- Direct match: With 6 letters, instil perfectly matches the clue’s enumeration.
- Precise meaning: It conveys the sense of introducing or implanting something gently, making it an exact fit for “introduce gradually.”
The verb instil is common in both educational and emotional contexts:
- Origin and usage: From Latin instillare, meaning “to drop in,” combining in- (“into”) and stillare (“to drip”). It initially referred to letting liquid drip slowly, later evolving to describe the gradual introduction of thoughts or virtues.
- Contexts: Used metaphorically in teaching, parenting, and leadership to describe shaping habits or beliefs.
- Examples: “Teachers aim to instil confidence in their students,” or “His parents instilled a strong sense of responsibility in him.”
Quick crossword clues like “introduce gradually (6)” often point to gentle or progressive verbs:
- Alternatives such as impart (6) or imbue (5) suggest similar meanings but lack the gradual aspect implied by “slowly introduce.”
- The combination of the clue’s precise wording and six-letter count strongly indicates instil as the correct choice.
- With clear meaning, perfect length, and everyday familiarity, instil is the correct crossword solution.
