bitter crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your definitive source for solving the clue "bitter crossword clue." Whether you're looking for answers related to taste, emotion, or experience, we've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions across various letter counts to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "bitter crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SOUR: Having a sharp, unpleasant taste like unripe fruit or vinegar, often a direct synonym for bitter in taste context.
TART: Possessing a sharp, acidic, or slightly bitter taste, commonly used to describe fruit or candies.
5 Letters
SHARP: Describing an intense and distinct taste, often associated with a pungent or slightly bitter quality, or a cutting remark.
HARSH: Unpleasantly rough or severe, which can apply to a taste, sound, or a difficult experience, reflecting the 'bitter' feeling.
ANGRY: Feeling or showing strong annoyance, displeasure, or hostility. This answer focuses on the emotional interpretation of 'bitter.'
7 Letters
GALLING: Humiliating or frustrating due to its unfairness or offensiveness, often leading to a bitter feeling of resentment.
9 Letters
RESENTFUL: Feeling or expressing bitterness or indignation at having been treated unfairly, a deeper emotional state of bitterness.
More About "bitter crossword clue"
The word "bitter" is a versatile clue in crosswords, often leading solvers down multiple paths. Its most common interpretations revolve around taste – a sharp, acrid flavor contrasting with sweet, sour, or salty. Think of dark chocolate, strong coffee, or certain leafy greens. However, "bitter" also profoundly describes emotional states, such as resentment, anger, or deep sadness stemming from disappointment or unfairness. A "bitter pill to swallow" is a common idiom expressing an unpleasant truth or consequence.
Beyond taste and emotion, "bitter" can also characterize harsh conditions, like a "bitter cold" wind or a "bitter struggle." Understanding these nuances is key to solving the clue correctly. Crossword constructors often play on these multiple meanings, sometimes providing context within the clue itself (e.g., "bitter taste" vs. "bitter feeling") or relying on the number of letters and crossing words to guide you to the precise answer. Always consider the context clues given by the puzzle to pinpoint the exact meaning intended.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters can significantly narrow down possibilities. For "bitter," short answers often relate to taste (SOUR, TART), while longer ones might describe emotions (RESENTFUL, ACRIMONIOUS) or experiences (GALLING).
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, the answers to intersecting clues will give you letters that strongly suggest one meaning of "bitter" over another. This is particularly useful when stuck between taste and emotional interpretations.
- Consider Common Idioms: Crossword clues often feature idiomatic expressions. If the clue hints at a phrase involving "bitter" (e.g., "___ pill to swallow"), consider answers that complete the idiom.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While taste is common, don't forget the emotional and experiential definitions. If your usual taste-related answers don't fit, pivot to emotional synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common meanings of 'bitter' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'bitter' most commonly refers to a sharp, unpleasant taste (like SOUR, TART, ACID). However, it can also describe strong negative emotions (like ANGRY, RESENTFUL) or a harsh, unpleasant experience (like HARSH, GALLING). The context of the puzzle's theme or other crossing words usually helps distinguish the intended meaning.
How can I distinguish between taste and emotional meanings of 'bitter'?
Look for accompanying words in the clue. If it mentions 'taste,' 'flavor,' or 'food,' it likely refers to a taste. If it mentions 'feeling,' 'emotion,' 'regret,' or 'resentment,' it points to an emotional meaning. Also, check the length of the required answer, as different interpretations may have different common word lengths.
Are there synonyms for 'bitter' that are less common crossword answers?
Yes, less common but still valid synonyms for 'bitter' might include ACRID, ACERB, POIGNANT (for sorrow), or even terms related to severe weather like BLEAK or INCLEMENT if the clue hints at a 'bitter' winter or wind. Always consider the nuance of the clue and the number of letters required.