crossword clue afflict – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "afflict". We've gathered all possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue afflict" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VEX: To afflict someone, especially with minor irritations or annoyances. Often used when the suffering is more mental than physical.
4 Letters
HARM: To cause damage or injury to; an act that causes pain or damage, which can be a form of affliction.
5 Letters
SMITE: To strike with a firm blow, often in a punitive or destructive way, causing affliction.
6 Letters
PLAGUE: To cause continual trouble or distress to, as if by a pestilence; a common synonym for afflicting someone persistently.
STRIKE: To hit forcibly or to cause someone to suffer from a disease, misfortune, or calamity, thereby afflicting them.
7 Letters
TORMENT: To cause severe suffering to, or to vex or annoy greatly; a strong form of affliction often implying prolonged pain.
OPPRESS: To keep in hardship and subservience by unjust authority; to weigh down, which is a type of affliction.
8 Letters
DISTRESS: Cause anxiety, sorrow, or pain to; a state of extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain, all of which are forms of affliction.
More About "crossword clue afflict"
The clue "afflict" is a versatile term often appearing in crosswords due to its wide range of synonyms related to causing suffering, pain, or distress. Depending on the context and the number of letters available, it can refer to physical harm, emotional torment, or even a persistent annoyance. Crossword setters love words like "afflict" because they allow for multiple correct answers based on the specific nuance or intensity implied.
When you encounter "afflict" in a crossword, think about synonyms that fit different scenarios. For a short answer, it might be something like "VEX" or "HARM." For longer answers, consider words like "PLAGUE," "TORMENT," or "DISTRESS." The key is to match the meaning to the available letter count and any intersecting letters you might already have in your grid.
Understanding the various shades of meaning for "afflict" can significantly boost your crossword-solving speed. It's not just about finding a direct synonym but also considering words that describe the *act* of causing affliction or the *state* of being afflicted. This broad perspective is crucial for tackling more challenging puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the blank spaces for "afflict." This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, helping you focus on answers like VEX (3 letters) or TORMENT (7 letters).
- Check Intersecting Clues: Use any letters you've already filled in from perpendicular words. These crucial letters will often point directly to the correct answer for "afflict" among the possible synonyms.
- Consider Nuance: While many words mean "to afflict," some imply a specific type of suffering (e.g., "vex" for minor irritation, "torment" for severe pain). If the puzzle has a theme or other clues suggest a particular tone, consider which synonym fits best.
- Think About Part of Speech: Ensure your chosen answer for "afflict" matches the part of speech (usually a verb, but sometimes a noun related to the act of afflicting).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'afflict' mean in a crossword context?
'Afflict' generally means to cause pain, suffering, or trouble to someone or something. In crosswords, it often leads to synonyms like HARM, PLAGUE, VEX, or TORMENT, depending on the number of letters.
Why are there multiple answers for 'crossword clue afflict'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because words can have many synonyms, different shades of meaning, or be used in various contexts. The correct answer depends on the number of letters required and the intersecting letters from other clues, which narrow down the possibilities for 'afflict'.
How can I find the best answer for 'afflict' in my puzzle?
To find the best answer, first check the number of letters needed for the blank space. Then, look at any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This will significantly narrow down the possibilities for the 'afflict' clue. Context from the puzzle's theme or other clues can also be helpful.