censures informally crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "censures informally crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RAPS: To give a quick, sharp rebuke; often used in the context of 'rapping someone's knuckles' as a mild, informal censure.
6 Letters
SCOLDS: To rebuke or reprimand someone angrily, typically in an informal or personal manner.
CHIDES: To express disapproval of someone; to scold mildly, often with a sense of gentle correction.
8 Letters
TELLS OFF: A common informal phrasal verb meaning to speak angrily to someone because they have done something wrong.
8 Letters
CALLS OUT: To publicly challenge or criticize someone for a mistake or wrongdoing, frequently in an informal setting.
11 Letters
DRESSES DOWN: To reprimand someone severely or scold them harshly, often implying a less formal or more personal context than a formal reprimand.
More About "censures informally crossword clue"
The clue "censures informally" points to a rich vocabulary of everyday expressions used to express disapproval or criticism without resorting to formal language. Unlike official reprimands or admonishments, informal censures are part of casual conversation and interactions. Crossword setters often use phrases like "informally," "casually," or "in common parlance" to guide solvers towards these more colloquial answers. Understanding this nuance is key to cracking such clues.
These terms can range from mild chiding to a more severe dressing-down, reflecting the spectrum of informal criticism. For instance, while 'SCOLDS' might imply a parental tone, 'TELLS OFF' suggests a more direct and perhaps heated confrontation. Recognizing these subtle differences, along with the precise letter count, helps in pinpointing the correct solution amidst several plausible synonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance and Tone: For clues involving actions or emotions, always think about the implied tone or level of formality. "Censures informally" clearly directs you away from official or highly formal terms.
- Think of Phrasal Verbs: Informal language heavily relies on phrasal verbs (e.g., "tells off," "calls out," "dresses down"). Keep an eye out for these multi-word answers when you encounter informal clues, as they are very common.
- Check Letter Count Scrupulously: Once you have a potential informal answer in mind, carefully count its letters. This is a critical step, as even a perfect synonym won't fit if the letter count is off.
- Brainstorm Synonyms and Antonyms: For the core action (censure), brainstorm as many synonyms as possible, then filter them by the "informally" qualifier. Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can also spark ideas for the correct word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between formal and informal censure in crosswords?
Formal censure clues might lead to words like 'REPRIMAND' or 'ADMONISH,' indicating a more official or serious tone. In contrast, informal clues point to more colloquial terms such as 'SCOLDS,' 'CHIDES,' or 'TELLS OFF,' reflecting everyday speech.
How can I tell if a crossword clue implies an informal answer?
Look for specific keywords within the clue that suggest informality. Phrases like 'informally,' 'casually,' 'colloquially,' 'in common parlance,' or idiomatic expressions such as 'gives a talking to' are strong indicators that the answer will be an everyday, informal term.
Are there common short answers for 'informal censure'?
Yes, some common short answers often seen for 'informal censure' include 'RAPS' (as in a 'rap on the knuckles') or 'DINGS' (referring to a small but noticeable criticism or flaw). These typically fit shorter word length requirements in puzzles.