cause distress to crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with "cause distress to"? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your crossword puzzle swiftly and accurately. Each answer comes with a short explanation to ensure it fits your puzzle's context.
Solutions for "cause distress to crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VEX: To make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
4 Letters
PAIN: To cause physical or emotional suffering to a person.
5 Letters
UPSET: To make someone feel sad, worried, or annoyed.
6 Letters
GRIEVE: To cause intense sorrow or distress to someone.
PLAGUE: To cause continual trouble or distress to someone or something.
HARASS: To subject someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation.
7 Letters
AFFLICT: (of a problem or illness) To cause pain or suffering to someone.
TROUBLE: To cause distress or problems to someone.
DISTURB: To cause anxiety in someone; to interrupt their peace or routine.
9 Letters
AGGRAVATE: To make a problem or situation worse, or to annoy someone.
More About "cause distress to crossword clue"
The clue "cause distress to" is a classic example of a definition-style crossword clue, requiring you to find a verb that accurately describes the act of causing discomfort, pain, or upset. These types of clues often draw upon a wide range of synonyms, from mild irritation to severe suffering. The key is to consider the nuances of each potential answer and how it fits the context of the clue.
When encountering such a clue, it's helpful to think about different facets of "distress" – physical, emotional, or even just a general nuisance. Words like "vex" or "irk" might fit for minor annoyances, while "afflict" or "grieve" suggest deeper suffering. The specific length of the answer will, of course, be your primary guide, but understanding the spectrum of meanings can help you explore suitable options.
Keep in mind that crosswords love synonyms, so even if a word doesn't immediately jump out, a slightly less common but perfectly valid synonym for causing distress might be the intended answer. Always cross-reference with any letters you already have in the grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: For clues involving emotions or actions, think of all possible synonyms, from formal to informal, mild to strong.
- Check Word Length: Always use the given letter count as your first filter. It immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Look at Adjacency: The letters from intersecting words are your best friends. They can quickly confirm or rule out a potential answer.
- Think of Context: Does the clue imply a specific type of distress (e.g., medical, emotional, social)? This can guide your synonym choice.
- Practice Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Many verbs that 'cause distress' might end in -ate, -fy, or start with dis-, un-.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of answers are common for 'cause distress to' in crosswords?
Crossword clues like 'cause distress to' typically look for verbs that signify annoying, bothering, hurting, or upsetting someone. Common answers include synonyms for vex, trouble, pain, or afflict.
How can I narrow down answers for this type of clue?
First, consider the number of letters you need. Then, think about synonyms for 'cause distress' in different contexts (physical pain, emotional upset, general annoyance). The surrounding letters in your grid will be crucial to confirm the correct word.
Are there any common crossword tricks related to 'distress' clues?
Sometimes, the clue might imply a more subtle form of distress, like 'worry' or 'irk'. Pay attention to whether the clue is past tense, present tense, or asks for a noun form of 'distress'. Always consider if the answer could be a less common synonym.