ailment crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "ailment crossword clue", organized by letter count. We aim to provide you with quick help and clear explanations to complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "ailment crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FLU: A common viral infection, often characterized by fever, chills, and body aches.
4 Letters
ACHE: A continuous, dull pain, often localized to a specific body part like a headache or backache.
5 Letters
COUGH: A sudden, forceful exhalation of air from the lungs, often a symptom of respiratory irritation.
FEVER: An abnormally high body temperature, often a symptom of illness.
6 Letters
MALADY: A disease or ailment, often used in a somewhat archaic or literary context.
7 Letters
ILLNESS: The state of being unwell, or a specific disease or period of sickness.
DISEASE: A disorder of structure or function in a human, animal, or plant, especially one that produces specific symptoms.
SYMPTOM: A physical or mental feature which is regarded as indicating a condition of disease.
8 Letters
DISORDER: A disruption of normal physical or mental functions; a health condition or disease.
SICKNESS: The state of being ill; a specific disease or malady.
9 Letters
INFIRMITY: Physical or mental weakness, often associated with old age; a general term for a physical ailment.
COMPLAINT: An illness or medical condition, typically a minor one.
More About "ailment crossword clue"
The term "ailment" is a classic in crossword puzzles due to its versatility and numerous synonyms of varying lengths. It generally refers to a mild illness or an affliction, making it a broad category that can encompass anything from a common cold to a chronic condition. Crossword setters love these types of clues because they allow for a wide range of answers depending on the available letter slots, challenging solvers to think about context and nuance.
When you encounter an "ailment" clue, consider the common words associated with feeling unwell or specific medical conditions. Sometimes the clue might hint at a general state (e.g., MALADY, ILLNESS), while other times it might point to a specific symptom (e.g., COUGH, ACHES). The key is to match the meaning and length precisely with the words that fit the grid.
Understanding the subtle differences between words like 'disease,' 'illness,' and 'disorder' can also be helpful, as setters often use these distinctions to guide you to the correct solution. Always check the surrounding letters in your grid to narrow down the possibilities for this common and recurring crossword theme.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always start by noting the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial step in narrowing down possibilities, especially for common clues like "ailment."
- Consider Synonyms and Specificity: For a broad clue like "ailment," think about both general synonyms (e.g., MALADY, ILLNESS) and more specific symptoms or conditions (e.g., FLU, ACHES). The context of other clues can often provide hints.
- Look for Common Crossword "Traps": Sometimes clues related to common words might lead you to simpler, shorter answers than you expect. Don't overthink it; the most obvious solution might be correct.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues first. Even one confirmed letter can dramatically help you uncover the "ailment" answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'ailment' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'ailment' often found in crossword puzzles include MALADY, ILLNESS, DISEASE, AFFLICTION, SICKNESS, COMPLAINT, or even more specific terms like ACHES, PAINS, or FLU depending on the length and context.
How can I distinguish between similar ailment clues?
Pay close attention to the word length given for the answer, any specific qualifiers in the clue (e.g., 'minor ailment,' 'childhood ailment'), and intersecting letters from other answers. Cross-referencing with other solved clues is often key.
Are there specific puzzle types that often feature medical clues?
Medical and health-related clues can appear in any crossword puzzle. However, themed puzzles might focus more on anatomy, diseases, or medical terms. Daily cryptic or standard crosswords often include a mix, using common ailments as accessible entry points.