bristles at crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving even the trickiest crossword puzzles. On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "bristles at crossword clue," helping you complete your puzzle with ease and confidence.
Solutions for "bristles at crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHIES: To recoil or show sudden fear or discomfort, metaphorically bristling at something.
6 Letters
CHAFES: To feel irritation or annoyance, often when something goes against one's wishes or expectations.
7 Letters
RECOILS: To shrink back in horror, disgust, or fear; a strong reaction against something undesirable.
8 Letters
FLINCHES: To make a quick, nervous movement as an instinctive reaction to fear, pain, or surprise, akin to bristling.
More About "bristles at crossword clue"
The phrase "bristles at" in a crossword clue often points to a strong negative emotional or physical reaction. It conjures an image of an animal raising its hackles in alarm or anger. This vivid imagery helps puzzle setters craft clues that require solvers to think beyond simple synonyms and consider the nuance of the expression.
When you encounter such a clue, think about words that convey a sense of objection, discomfort, or an immediate, sometimes involuntary, negative response. It's not just about disagreeing; it's about a deep-seated aversion or irritation that surfaces quickly. Understanding these connotations is key to unlocking the intended answer.
Crossword puzzles frequently use idiomatic expressions and metaphorical language to challenge solvers. "Bristles at" is a perfect example of this, requiring a grasp of its figurative meaning to arrive at words like SHIES, CHAFES, RECOILS, or FLINCHES, depending on the specific context and letter count.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Emotional Nuance: For clues like "bristles at," think about the emotional state it describes (anger, discomfort, revulsion) and search for words that accurately convey that feeling.
- Check Letter Counts Carefully: Always verify the number of letters in the potential answer against the blank spaces. A word like "RECOILS" for 7 letters is distinct from "SHIES" for 5.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by crossing words are your best friends. They can quickly confirm or eliminate potential answers, especially for less common terms.
- Think Beyond Literal Meanings: Many crossword clues use figurative language. "Bristles at" is rarely about literal hair standing up, but rather a metaphorical reaction.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "bristles at" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "bristles at" typically refers to a reaction of anger, indignation, strong disapproval, or recoiling from something. It suggests a strong, often visceral, negative response to a situation, statement, or idea.
Are there common synonyms for "bristles at" in crosswords?
Common synonyms or related concepts often found in crosswords for "bristles at" include words like RECOILS, OBJECTS, CHAFES, RESENTS, SHIES, or FLINCHES. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters and any intersecting clues.
How can I identify the correct length for "bristles at" answers?
To find the correct answer length, first, look at the blank spaces provided in the puzzle. Then, consider common synonyms for 'bristles at' and see which words fit the pattern. If you have intersecting letters from other clues, these will significantly help narrow down the possibilities.