LinkedIn CrossClimb #638 Solution: Step-by-Step Guide

Conquer today's LinkedIn CrossClimb puzzle #638, published January 28, 2026. This word ladder game challenges you to climb from start to finish by changing one letter at a time, matching clues perfectly. Keywords: CrossClimb solution, LinkedIn games, word puzzle, daily CrossClimb #638.

How CrossClimb Works

In CrossClimb, solve clues for five-letter words that form a chain—each differing by exactly one letter from the previous. Unlock the compound question at the end for the top and bottom phrases. Logical connections between clues reveal the path. Let's break down #638 step by step.

Step 1: Hint 1 - "Task around the house"

The first word is a common household duty, like mowing the lawn or washing dishes. The answer is CHORE. This five-letter word fits perfectly as your starting point in the ladder.

Step 2: Hint 2 - "Selected between multiple options"

Building from CHORE, change one letter for picking from choices, as in an election or menu. Swap the R for S to get CHOSE. Verify: C-H-O-R-E to C-H-O-S-E (only the fourth letter changes).

Step 3: Hint 3 - "Run after with the intent of catching"

Next, pursue someone or something, like chasing a bus. From CHOSE, alter the O to A: C-H-O-S-E becomes CHASE. One-letter shift confirmed—third letter only.

Step 4: Hint 4 - "Bring to an end; stop"

Now, halt or discontinue an action. Change the H to E and A to E? Wait—from CHASE, swap H for E and adjust: actually, C-H-A-S-E to C-E-A-S-E = CEASE. Second letter changes (H to E), keeping the chain tight.

Step 5: Hint 5 - "Rental agreement"

Finally, a contract for renting property. From CEASE, shift the first C to L: C-E-A-S-E to LEASE. Perfect one-letter change (first position).

CHORE
CHOSE
CHASE
CEASE
LEASE

Arrange them in this order—each step validates the one-letter rule. Puzzle solved up to here!

Compound Question: "A two-word phrase for when a sailor is allowed off a ship to take a break on dry land."

With the ladder complete, tackle the finale. Link the bottom word LEASE (sounds like part of it) to nautical time off. The phrase is SHORE LEAVE—Top: SHORE, Bottom: LEAVE. Sailors get shore leave to relax on land. Brilliant tie-in!

Tips for Future LinkedIn CrossClimb Puzzles

• Focus on one-letter changes—test positions systematically.
• Clues overlap thematically; here, actions evolve from chores to contracts.
• Compound unlocks last—use ladder words for phonetic or semantic hints.
• Practice daily for speed in LinkedIn games.

Share your solve time in comments! Check back for tomorrow's CrossClimb solution. #LinkedInCrossClimb #638 #WordPuzzle #DailySolution