LinkedIn CrossClimb #550 Solution - November 1, 2025

Welcome to your daily LinkedIn CrossClimb solution guide! In this post, we’ll walk you through how to solve CrossClimb #550, published on November 1, 2025. This word ladder puzzle challenges players to connect clues by changing just one letter at each step, leading from the starting word to the target word. Let’s break down each clue and reveal the logic behind the answers.

Understanding LinkedIn CrossClimb

CrossClimb is a popular word puzzle game on LinkedIn where players climb from a starting word to a target word. Each intermediate answer changes exactly one letter from the previous word. Players are given several clues for each step, and a final compound question may combine multiple words or hints. Only the correct words following the one-letter-change rule are valid. The puzzle requires logical reasoning to connect clues, maintain letter positions, and reach the final answer.

Today’s Clues and Answers

Here are the clues and answers for CrossClimb #550:

• Hint 1: Don't play by the rules
  Answer: cheat
• Hint 2: Any of several attachments to the sole of a sports shoe to improve traction
  Answer: cleat
• Hint 3: Make a "baa" sound like a sheep
  Answer: bleat
• Hint 4: Not at all hopeful or encouraging, as a prognosis
  Answer: bleak
• Hint 5: Opening shot in billiards
  Answer: break

Step-by-Step Reasoning

Let’s analyze each clue and see how the words connect:

1. cheat - This word fits the clue “Don't play by the rules.” It’s a common synonym for breaking the rules.
2. cleat - Changing the 'h' in “cheat” to 'l' gives us “cleat,” which matches the clue about attachments on sports shoes.
3. bleat - Changing the 'c' in “cleat” to 'b' results in “bleat,” the sound a sheep makes.
4. bleak - Changing the 't' in “bleat” to 'k' gives us “bleak,” describing something not hopeful or encouraging.
5. break - Finally, changing the 'l' in “bleak” to 'r' leads to “break,” the opening shot in billiards.

Compound Question

The compound question asks for a grain grown worldwide and a common food made from that grain. The answers are:

• Top Answer: wheat
• Bottom Answer: bread

Conclusion

Solving LinkedIn CrossClimb puzzles like #550 requires careful attention to clues and the one-letter-change rule. By starting with the most obvious clues and working through the ladder step by step, you can successfully complete the puzzle. Keep practicing and enjoy the daily challenge!

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