appalling crossword clue 8 letters – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "appalling crossword clue 8 letters" by Letter Count
8 Letters
DREADFUL: Causing great fear, dread, or dismay; extremely bad or serious.
SHOCKING: Causing intense surprise, disgust, horror, or indignation.
HORRIBLE: Causing horror; dreadful; very unpleasant or bad.
TERRIBLE: Extremely bad or serious; causing great fear or dread; very unpleasant.
More About "appalling crossword clue 8 letters"
The clue "appalling" often points to words that describe something dreadful, shocking, or extremely unpleasant. In crosswords, synonyms are a common trick, and the setter might be looking for a word that perfectly fits the emotional weight of "appalling" while also matching the letter count. Words like DREADFUL and SHOCKING are strong contenders due to their direct synonymy and common usage in expressing dismay or horror.
When encountering such a clue, consider the nuance. Is the clue leaning towards something visually horrible, emotionally shocking, or generally dreadful in quality? Understanding these subtle differences can help you pick the precise answer if multiple synonyms fit the length. Always cross-reference with surrounding letters in your grid to confirm the correct fit.
Sometimes, crossword setters use "appalling" in a more figurative sense, or to describe a situation rather than an object. However, for an 8-letter answer, it almost always refers to a strong adjective describing something extremely negative. Our listed answers cover the most frequent solutions for this clue length.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly read books, articles, and even dictionaries to broaden your word knowledge. The more words you know, the more likely you are to recognise a crossword answer instantly.
- Look for Suffixes and Prefixes: Many words share common beginnings or endings. If you have a few letters, think about common prefixes (e.g., UN-, RE-, DIS-) or suffixes (e.g., -ING, -ED, -LY) that might complete the word.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Crossword clues often play on words with double meanings or homophones. Don't get stuck on the first interpretation that comes to mind; think laterally about other possible contexts for the clue word.
- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. The more crosswords you do, the more familiar you'll become with common clue types, setters' styles, and frequently used crosswordese.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'appalling' in crosswords?
Common synonyms often used in crosswords for 'appalling' include dreadful, shocking, horrible, terrible, and dire, depending on the number of letters required. These words convey a strong sense of unpleasantness or dismay and are frequently encountered in puzzles.
How can I improve my crossword-solving speed?
To improve your speed, practice regularly, expand your vocabulary by reading widely, and learn common crossword conventions like abbreviations or common suffix/prefix patterns. Don't be afraid to skip challenging clues and come back to them later; sometimes, filling in other answers can reveal the missing letters.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Crossword clues can have multiple answers because words often have several synonyms or can be interpreted in different contexts. The surrounding letters of intersecting words are crucial for narrowing down the correct answer for that specific puzzle grid, ensuring only one solution fits.