cast aspersions on crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "cast aspersions on crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
LIBEL: A published false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation.
6 Letters
DEFAME: To damage the good reputation of someone; libel or slander.
MALIGN: To speak about someone or something in a spitefully critical manner.
7 Letters
SLANDER: To make false and damaging statements about someone.
ASPERSE: To attack the reputation of someone or something.
9 Letters
CRITICIZE: To indicate the faults of (someone or something) in a disapproving way.
9 Letters
DENIGRATE: To criticize unfairly; to disparage.
More About "cast aspersions on crossword"
The phrase "cast aspersions on" refers to the act of making damaging or critical remarks about someone or something, often without solid evidence. It's about undermining a reputation or character through negative insinuations or direct accusations. In the world of crosswords, this clue frequently leads to answers that are synonyms for defamation, disparagement, or negative commentary.
Crossword setters love using such vivid phrases because they allow for a variety of precise synonyms. While the core meaning revolves around damaging a reputation, the specific answer can vary greatly depending on the required letter count and the subtle nuances hinted at by other clues in the puzzle. Words like SLANDER, DEFAME, and MALIGN are common picks, focusing on the verbal or written aspect of the accusation.
Understanding the legal and social context of "casting aspersions" can also be helpful. It touches upon concepts like libel (written defamation) and slander (spoken defamation), which are often separate legal issues but are closely related in meaning when seen through a crossword lens. Always consider whether the answer needs to reflect a general act of criticism or a more formal, damaging accusation.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuances: Words like 'malign,' 'defame,' and 'slander' all relate to casting aspersions but have slightly different connotations or legal distinctions. Pay attention to the clue's exact wording.
- Count Letters Carefully: Once you have a potential answer in mind, always double-check that its letter count matches the space provided in the grid. This is often the quickest way to confirm or rule out a word.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Many crossword clues, especially those involving phrases, rely on finding direct synonyms or even antonyms (if the clue implies the opposite). Brainstorm related words once you understand the core meaning.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Don't try to solve a clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are your best friends. They can provide crucial hints and confirm your suspicions for the answer to "cast aspersions on."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'cast aspersions on' mean in general usage?
'Casting aspersions' means to make damaging or critical remarks or judgments about someone or something. It implies a negative, often unfounded, attack on reputation or character.
Are 'slander' and 'libel' direct synonyms for 'casting aspersions'?
While related, 'slander' and 'libel' are more specific legal terms. Slander is spoken defamation, and libel is written defamation. 'Casting aspersions' is a broader term that encompasses any act of spreading negative remarks, whether formally defamatory or not.
How do crossword setters typically clue phrases like 'cast aspersions on'?
Crossword setters often use 'cast aspersions on' to prompt answers related to defamation, criticism, or disparagement. Common answers include synonyms like SLANDER, DEFAME, MALIGN, or DENIGRATE, depending on the letter count and surrounding clues. They may also use more abstract or indirect synonyms that fit the specific context of the puzzle.