altercation crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a crossword and the clue "altercation" has you stumped, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions sorted by word length, along with explanations to help you understand the nuances.
Solutions for "altercation crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ROW: A short, often informal, dispute or argument.
4 Letters
SPAT: A brief, minor quarrel or disagreement.
5 Letters
BRAWL: A rough, noisy fight, typically involving a number of people.
7 Letters
QUARREL: An angry dispute or disagreement, typically between people who are usually on good terms.
8 Letters
ARGUMENT: A heated dispute or disagreement, often involving strong opinions.
More About "altercation crossword clue"
"Altercation" is a popular clue in crosswords because it has many synonyms that vary in length and intensity, making it versatile for setters. It generally refers to a noisy, heated, or sometimes physical dispute. Understanding the subtle differences between words like a 'spat' (minor) and a 'brawl' (physical, noisy) can be key to selecting the correct answer when other clues don't fully differentiate.
Crossword constructors love to use words that evoke a clear image but also have numerous linguistic cousins. An altercation is more than just a disagreement; it implies a level of confrontation. Pay close attention to any surrounding words in the clue – do they suggest a brief squabble, a shouting match, or something more serious? This will guide you to the perfect fit for your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of blank squares in the puzzle. This is the most crucial step, as it immediately narrows down your potential answers. For 'altercation', a 3-letter space won't fit 'QUARREL'.
- Consider the Nuance: While many words mean "altercation," their connotations differ. A "row" is often verbal, a "brawl" is physical, and a "spat" is minor. Think about which synonym best fits the tone or context implied by the full clue.
- Look for Common Crossword Anagrams: Sometimes, clues for "altercation" might be an anagram of a related word or hint at a less common synonym. Being familiar with frequent crossword patterns can give you an edge.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes a letter from an intersecting word will give you the crucial first or last letter, which can instantly unlock the correct answer from a list of possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'altercation' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'altercation' refers to a noisy argument or disagreement, often hinting at words like BRAWL, QUARREL, or SPAT. Clues might focus on the intensity, participants, or nature of the dispute.
How do I find the right length answer for an altercation clue?
Look at the number of blanks in the puzzle. If you have '_ _ _', you might be looking for a 3-letter word like ROW. If it's longer, consider synonyms like QUARREL (7 letters) or ARGUMENT (8 letters).
Are there common synonyms for 'altercation' in crosswords?
Yes, very common ones include BRAWL, QUARREL, SPAT, ROW, DISPUTE, ARGUMENT, and FIGHT. The specific synonym often depends on the nuance suggested by the rest of the clue.