awful crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

More About "awful crossword clue"

"Awful" is a word that often appears in crosswords, not just as a clue but also as a potential answer for various synonyms of bad, terrible, or unpleasant. When you encounter "awful crossword clue," it suggests that the solution should be a word that means something is of poor quality, highly undesirable, or perhaps even frustratingly difficult, as in the case of a poorly constructed or overly obscure clue itself. The context of the puzzle, and particularly any intersecting letters, will be crucial in narrowing down the exact fit.

The beauty of crossword puzzles lies in their ability to use words with multiple meanings or subtle nuances. "Awful" can sometimes refer to something awe-inspiring or terrible in a grand sense, though in modern usage, it almost exclusively denotes something bad. In crosswords, however, older or more formal meanings might occasionally surface, adding another layer of challenge. Always consider both the common contemporary meanings and any potential historical or less-used definitions.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

• Analyze the Clue's Tone: For words like "awful," consider if the clue has a formal, informal, or even ironic tone. This can guide you towards synonyms like 'bad' (general) vs. 'lousy' (informal).
• Check Letter Count First: Always count the blank spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities and helps you focus on answers of the correct length, as demonstrated above.
• Look for Wordplay Indicators: If a clue seems 'awful' because it's confusing, it might be an anagram, a pun, or a hidden word. Look for common indicators like "mixed up," "rearranged," "sound of," or "broken."
• Consider Common Crosswordese: There are certain words (e.g., OREO, OLEO, ERNE, ERIE) that appear frequently in crosswords. Familiarizing yourself with these can save time, especially for shorter answers.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.