cantankerous crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "cantankerous", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions sorted by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the nuances of each answer.
Solutions for "cantankerous crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SURLY: Exhibiting a bad temper or unfriendly demeanor, often associated with a sullen or irritable disposition. This fits a short answer for 'cantankerous'.
6 Letters
CRABBY: Irritable and ill-tempered, especially in a complaining or peevish way. A common synonym for someone who is 'cantankerous'.
GRUMPY: Easily annoyed or upset; in a bad mood. Another excellent fit for the 'cantankerous' disposition.
7 Letters
PEEVISH: Easily irritated, especially by unimportant things. This perfectly captures the nuance of being difficult and ill-tempered.
9 Letters
IRASCIBLE: Having or showing a tendency to be easily angered. This strong synonym is frequently used in crosswords to indicate a 'cantankerous' nature.
More About "cantankerous crossword clue"
'Cantankerous' is a rich and descriptive adjective that perfectly describes someone prone to arguments, bad moods, and general ill-temper. In the world of crosswords, such words are often sought after for their precise meaning and the variety of synonyms they possess. When faced with this clue, solvers should consider words that denote irritability, contentiousness, or a quarrelsome nature.
The beauty of a clue like "cantankerous" lies in its ability to lead to a range of answers, from shorter, more common synonyms like SURLY or CRABBY, to longer, more formal terms such as IRASCIBLE. The specific length of the answer required by the puzzle grid is your primary guide, but understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms can also help in confirming the correct solution. Always think about the specific context the crossword setter might be hinting at.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: While many synonyms for 'cantankerous' exist, think about the specific shade of meaning. Is it just irritable (CRABBY) or prone to rage (IRASCIBLE)? This can help narrow down options.
- Check Cross-References: Always use intersecting letters from other clues. A single confirmed letter can significantly reduce the possibilities for a "cantankerous" answer.
- Think About Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If a 6-letter word fits, focus on answers like CRABBY or GRUMPY, rather than longer ones like IRASCIBLE.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: If you're stuck, write down all the synonyms you can think of for 'cantankerous' and then try to fit them into the grid based on letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'cantankerous' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'cantankerous' typically refers to someone who is ill-tempered, quarrelsome, or difficult to deal with. Answers will often be synonyms like SURLY, GRUMPY, PEEVISH, or IRASCIBLE.
How do you identify synonyms for 'cantankerous' in crosswords?
Look for words that describe a person with a bad temper, someone who is easily angered, or a person who constantly complains. Common word lengths for these synonyms can vary widely, so consider answers from 5 to 11 letters or more.
Are there common word lengths for 'cantankerous' answers?
Yes, common lengths include 5 letters (e.g., SURLY), 6 letters (e.g., CRABBY, GRUMPY), 7 letters (e.g., PEEVISH), and longer words like IRASCIBLE (9 letters) or BADTEMPERED (11 letters). The specific puzzle's layout will dictate the exact length required.