crossword clue curse – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "curse", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue curse" by Letter Count
3 Letters
HEX: A magic spell, often intended to cause trouble or bad luck. A common short answer for 'curse' in a mystical context.
4 Letters
BANE: A cause of great distress or annoyance. Often used to describe something that perpetually troubles or 'curses' a situation or person.
JINX: A person or thing that is believed to bring bad luck. It can also be used as a verb meaning to cause someone or something to have bad luck.
DAMN: To condemn someone or something to a particular, often unpleasant, fate. Also, a strong expletive used to express anger or frustration.
OATH: A solemn promise, but also a synonym for a strong swear word or expletive, which can be a form of 'curse'.
8 Letters
ANATHEMA: A formal ecclesiastical curse that condemns a person or denounces a doctrine. It implies strong disapproval and often exclusion.
11 Letters
MALEDICTION: The utterance of a curse against someone or something. It signifies a magical word or phrase intended to bring about evil or destruction.
More About "crossword clue curse"
"Curse" is a fascinating and versatile clue in crosswords, often leading to a wide array of possible answers depending on the nuance implied. From short, punchy answers like HEX to longer, more formal terms such as MALEDICTION, the word can encompass everything from a superstitious belief to a vehement expression of anger or even a formal religious denunciation. Understanding the context of the clue—whether it hints at magic, strong language, or misfortune—is key to identifying the correct solution.
Crossword setters love using "curse" because of its multiple meanings. It can refer to a hex placed on someone, a jinx that brings bad luck, a strong expletive used in frustration, or even a metaphorical burden or affliction that "curses" a situation. This broad semantic field means that solvers must pay close attention to any accompanying words or phrases in the clue that narrow down its meaning, such as "witch's spell," "strong word," or "source of trouble."
The variety of synonyms also makes it a great way to test a solver's vocabulary across different registers, from informal slang to archaic or religious terms. Always consider the letter count and any crossing letters as essential guides when faced with this flexible clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For "curse," consider if the clue points to a magical curse (HEX, JINX), a verbal one (DAMN, OATH), or a metaphorical one (BANE, SCOURGE).
- Check Letter Count First: Before anything else, note the number of letters required. This instantly narrows down your options significantly for clues like "curse" which have many synonyms of varying lengths.
- Look at Crossing Letters: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They'll confirm which potential answer for "curse" is the correct fit.
- Consider Slang vs. Formal: Some clues might hint at informal language ("strong word"), while others suggest more formal or archaic terms ("formal condemnation"). This helps distinguish between answers like 'damn' and 'anathema'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'curse' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'curse' can refer to a wide range of concepts from a hex or jinx to a strong expletive or a cause of great trouble. Common answers often include synonyms for bad luck, condemnation, or even strong oaths.
How can I identify the correct length for a 'curse' answer?
The number of letters is your primary guide. Consider common short answers like HEX or BANE for 3-4 letters, and longer, more formal terms like ANATHEMA or MALEDICTION for 8+ letters. Checking crossing letters is crucial.
Are there different types of 'curses' in crossword clues?
Yes, clues might distinguish between a magical curse (like a 'hex' or 'jinx'), a verbal curse (like an 'oath' or 'damn'), or a metaphorical curse (like a 'bane' or 'scourge'). Pay attention to subtle nuances in the clue's phrasing, such as 'sorcerer's curse' versus 'strong curse word'.