Make less valuable (7) - Crossword Clue
Answer: CHEAPEN
Understanding the clue
- Make less valuable is a crossword clue that leads to the seven-letter answer CHEAPEN.
- This verb describes the action of reducing something's worth, quality, or dignity, whether in monetary terms, emotional significance, or overall perception.
Why CHEAPEN Appears in Crosswords
- Cheapen is a popular crossword answer because it fits common puzzle construction requirements perfectly.
- The seven-letter length works well for mid-sized grid spaces, and its letter combination (C-H-E-A-P-E-N) includes frequently used crossword letters.
- The word's straightforward definition makes it accessible to solvers at various skill levels.
- Clue setters appreciate cheapen because it can be clued in multiple ways - from direct definitions like "make less valuable" to more creative clues referencing commerce, quality reduction, or dignity loss.
- The word's versatility makes it appear regularly in both quick and cryptic crossword formats.
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Look for synonym patterns: Words ending in "-en" often indicate verbs that mean "to make something [adjective]" - like strengthen, weaken, or cheapen.
- Consider the letter count: Seven-letter answers often feature common prefixes or suffixes that can help you work backwards from partial fills.
- Think about context: Clues about value, worth, or quality degradation frequently point to words like devalue, degrade, or cheapen.
- Use crossing answers: If you have letters from intersecting words, test common consonant-vowel patterns that fit commercial or value-related vocabulary.
- Check for double meanings: Some clues play on the word "cheap" itself, which could hint at both low cost and reduced quality simultaneously.
Make less valuable (7) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: What's the difference between cheapen and devalue?
A: While both mean reducing worth, "cheapen" often implies making something tacky or of lower quality, whereas "devalue" typically refers to reducing monetary or perceived value without necessarily affecting quality.
Q: Can cheapen be used in a positive way?
A: Rarely. The term almost always carries negative connotations, suggesting unwelcome reduction in value, quality, or dignity rather than making something more affordable in a beneficial way.
Q: Are there other seven-letter answers for "make less valuable"?
A: Yes, alternatives include DEVALUE (7), DEGRADE (7), or DEBASES (7), though CHEAPEN is the most commonly used answer for this specific clue wording.
Q: How often does CHEAPEN appear in crosswords?
A: CHEAPEN appears regularly in major crossword publications because of its ideal letter length, useful letter combinations, and clear definition that works for various difficulty levels.
Q: What are the most common clue variations for CHEAPEN?
A: Common variations include "Reduce in value," "Make tawdry," "Lower the quality of," "Degrade," and "Make less worthy."
