assail crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "assail crossword" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "assail crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
LASH: To attack verbally or physically with a swift, violent blow.
RAID: A sudden assault or attack.
5 Letters
STORM: To attack a place or person suddenly and with great force.
6 Letters
ATTACK: To make a violent or hostile move against.
CHARGE: To rush forward in an assault; or to accuse strongly.
BERATE: To scold or criticize someone angrily.
7 Letters
BOMBARD: To attack a place continuously with bombs, shells, or questions/criticism.
More About "assail crossword"
The word "assail" in crosswords most commonly points to an act of attack, but it carries a fascinating duality. It can refer to a physical assault, such as "assailing a fortress," implying a direct, forceful charge. However, it equally frequently denotes a verbal or psychological attack, like "assailing someone with questions" or "assailing their character with criticism." This nuance is often key to unlocking the correct answer in your puzzle.
Crossword setters love words with multiple interpretations, and "assail" is a prime example. Depending on the context provided by the rest of the clue or any crossing letters you've already filled in, you might need to lean towards a synonym for a physical confrontation or a word describing harsh verbal condemnation. Pay close attention to any prepositions or accompanying nouns in the clue.
Understanding this breadth of meaning for "assail" will significantly improve your chances of solving the clue. By considering both its literal and figurative applications, you can narrow down the possibilities and confidently choose the best fit from our list of solutions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms Broadly: When encountering a clue like "assail," don't just stick to the most obvious synonyms. Consider words that mean both physical and verbal attacks, as the clue could be hinting at either.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: Always use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These are your most reliable guide for narrowing down possible answers for "assail" based on their length and position.
- Analyze the Clue's Context: Look for other words in the clue that might provide a subtle hint. For example, "Assail vocally" clearly points to a verbal attack, while "Assail the city walls" indicates a physical one.
- Consider Wordplay: In cryptic crosswords, "assail" might be part of an anagram, a homophone, or another form of wordplay. Even in standard puzzles, thinking outside the box can sometimes reveal the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "assail" usually mean in crosswords?
It typically points to words meaning to attack, either physically (like a fortress) or verbally (like with criticism or questions). Common answers include ATTACK, CHARGE, BERATE, or BOMBARD.
How do I know if the answer for "assail" is a physical or verbal attack?
Look at the clue's surrounding words or any crossing letters. For instance, "Assail with words" points to a verbal attack, while "Assail the ramparts" suggests a physical one. The context is key.
Are there any common traps with "assail" clues?
Be aware of its dual meaning (physical vs. verbal assault). Also, some clues might use it metaphorically, requiring you to think beyond direct synonyms. Always consider the number of letters required and how they fit with existing letters in your grid.