crossword clue annoy – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "annoy" in your crossword, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue annoy" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRK: To irritate or vex, often mildly.
VEX: To make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters.
4 Letters
GALL: To irritate or annoy (someone) greatly.
5 Letters
CHAFE: To make sore by rubbing; also, to irritate or annoy.
ANNOY: To make (someone) a little angry; to irritate. (A direct answer, often used when other options don't fit)
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy (someone) with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
HARASS: To subject to aggressive pressure or intimidation; to bother persistently.
BOTHER: To cause trouble or annoyance to (someone).
NETTLE: To irritate or annoy (someone).
8 Letters
IRRITATE: To make (someone) annoyed, impatient, or angry.
10 Letters
EXASPERATE: To irritate intensely; infuriate.
More About "crossword clue annoy"
The clue "annoy" is a common staple in crosswords due to the vast number of synonyms available in the English language. From mild irritations to intense frustrations, words like 'irk', 'vex', 'bother', 'pester', and 'irritate' all fall under this umbrella, allowing constructors flexibility in fitting them into grids of various sizes.
When you encounter 'annoy' as a clue, it's crucial to consider the letter count first, as this immediately narrows down the pool of potential answers. Beyond that, the specific context of the puzzle or any theme might hint at a particular intensity or nuance of annoyance. For instance, a puzzle with a humorous theme might lean towards lighter synonyms, while a more serious one could feature words like 'harass' or 'exasperate'.
Mastering synonyms for common verbs like 'annoy' is a key strategy for any crossword enthusiast. Our detailed explanations help you not just find the answer, but also understand the subtle differences in meaning, improving your vocabulary and puzzle-solving skills for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the number of boxes available for the answer. This is the single most effective way to eliminate many possibilities for clues like "annoy."
- Check Crossing Letters: If you've filled in any letters from intersecting clues, use them as vital clues. Even one correctly placed letter can drastically narrow down the options for synonyms of "annoy."
- Consider the Tone: Some crossword puzzles have a specific tone (e.g., lighthearted, formal, British English). While "annoy" itself is neutral, its synonyms might lean towards one tone, helping you choose the best fit if multiple words of the same length are possible.
- Think of Phrasal Verbs: Sometimes, "annoy" might be clued in a way that suggests a phrasal verb, though less common for this specific clue. Always be open to different parts of speech or idiomatic expressions related to the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many answers for 'annoy'?
The English language is rich with synonyms, and 'annoy' has many words that convey a similar meaning but with different nuances or intensities. Crossword constructors often choose a synonym based on the available letters in the grid, leading to a variety of possible answers for the same clue.
How can I quickly find the right 'annoy' synonym in a crossword?
Look at the number of letters required for the answer. Then, consider any crossing letters you already have filled in. This combination will quickly narrow down the possibilities among the synonyms for 'annoy'.
Are there different types of 'annoyance' in crosswords?
Yes, some clues might hint at a mild irritation (e.g., 'irk'), while others suggest a more persistent or severe form of annoyance (e.g., 'harass' or 'exasperate'). The context of the puzzle or other clues can sometimes provide hints to the specific shade of meaning.