beset crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the "beset crossword puzzle clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with their letter counts and explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.

Solutions for "beset crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count

5 Letters

HOUND: To persistently annoy or pursue someone.

ANNOY: To irritate or bother someone.

6 Letters

PLAGUE: To cause continual trouble or distress to someone or something.

ASSAIL: To make a concerted or violent attack on someone or something.

BADGER: To pester (someone) repeatedly to do something.

HARASS: To subject to aggressive pressure or intimidation.

7 Letters

TROUBLE: To cause distress or difficulty to someone.

AFFLICT: (of a problem or illness) cause pain or suffering to; affect or trouble.

TORMENT: To inflict severe physical or mental suffering on.

OPPRESS: To keep (someone) in subservience and hardship, especially by the unjust exercise of authority.

BEDEVIL: (of a problem or difficulty) cause annoyance or difficulty to.

8 Letters

SURROUND: To encircle or enclose.

ENCUMBER: To restrict or impede (someone or something) in such a way that free action or movement is difficult.

9 Letters

PERSECUTE: Subject to hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of their race or political or religious beliefs.

More About "beset crossword puzzle clue"

"Beset" is a versatile word that frequently appears in crossword puzzles due to its multiple shades of meaning. From implying persistent trouble or harassment to suggesting encirclement or being overwhelmed, its broad semantic range makes it a popular choice for clue setters. When you encounter "beset" in a puzzle, it's crucial to consider the context of other solved letters and the precise number of characters required for the answer.

Common synonyms like HOUND, PLAGUE, and ANNOY focus on the aspect of persistent irritation, while words like SURROUND or ENCUMBER refer to being hemmed in or weighed down. More intense answers like TROUBLE, AFFLICT, or PERSECUTE suggest deeper levels of suffering or oppression. Understanding these nuances can significantly narrow down the possibilities and help you pinpoint the exact word the puzzle creator had in mind.

Often, a crossword setter might use "beset" to trick solvers, leading them to think only of the "trouble" aspect, when a "surrounding" synonym might be the actual answer. Always keep an open mind to the various interpretations of the clue. This clue is a fantastic example of how expanding your vocabulary for synonyms and antonyms can dramatically improve your crossword-solving skills.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'beset' typically mean in a crossword clue?

'Beset' generally means to trouble or threaten persistently, to surround, or to oppress. In crosswords, it often hints at words related to harassment, attack, or being encircled.

Why might there be multiple answers for 'beset'?

Many crossword clues, including 'beset,' can have multiple valid answers due to synonyms, different nuances of meaning, or varying contexts within specific puzzles (e.g., a cryptic vs. a standard puzzle). The number of letters is key to finding the correct one for your grid.

How can I get better at solving 'beset' type clues?

Practice recognizing synonyms for common words like 'beset'. Pay attention to the letter count required, and consider if the clue has a secondary meaning or is part of a phrase. Reading widely and building your vocabulary are also great strategies.