crossword clue flog – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword clue flog", you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the most common and likely answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "crossword clue flog" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WHIP: To strike repeatedly with a whip or stick; a very common synonym for 'flog' in crosswords.
BEAT: To strike repeatedly, often with a stick or similar instrument; a direct and widely used synonym for 'flog'.
LASH: To strike someone or something with a whip or cord; can also imply a forceful or sudden movement.
6 Letters
THRASH: To beat (a person or animal) repeatedly and violently with a stick or whip; to move in a violent, convulsive way.
7 Letters
SCOURGE: To whip (someone) as a punishment, often severely; historically a tool of punishment, making it a strong synonym for 'flog'.
More About "crossword clue flog"
"Flog" is a word deeply rooted in history, often associated with harsh physical punishment, but its meaning in modern English, especially in a crossword context, can extend to selling something forcefully or persistently, as in "to flog a dead horse" (to waste effort on something that is no longer useful). However, for crossword puzzles, the primary meaning almost always defaults to its more literal sense of beating or whipping.
Crossword setters love words like "flog" because they offer multiple, distinct synonyms and can hint at a broader range of related actions. While "whip" or "beat" are the most straightforward answers, terms like "lash," "thrash," or even "scourge" introduce varying degrees of intensity or specific instruments, providing rich ground for clues. Understanding these nuances helps solvers choose the precise word that fits the grid and the setter's intent.
When you encounter "flog" in a puzzle, always consider the letter count first, then the surrounding letters. If the clue has additional words, they might point to a specific type of flogging or a more figurative sense. For example, "Flog (a product)" would lean towards 'SELL' or 'HAWK', but a simple "Flog" clue typically wants one of the more direct 'beating' synonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities and eliminates many incorrect guesses.
- Consider Synonyms: Think of all possible synonyms for the clue word. For "flog", think 'beat', 'whip', 'lash', 'thrash', 'scourge', etc. Write them down if it helps.
- Look for Figurative Meanings: Some clues use words in their less common or figurative senses. While "flog" often means to beat, it can also mean to sell forcefully. Context is key!
- Use Crossing Letters: Don't try to solve a tough clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are your most valuable allies. Fill in what you know, then re-evaluate the tricky clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'flog' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'flog' most often refers to the act of beating or whipping something or someone. While 'flog' can also mean to sell something persistently or unwantedly (as in 'flog a dead horse'), the physical punishment meaning is far more common for direct answers.
Are there different letter lengths for answers to 'flog'?
Yes, common answers for 'flog' vary significantly in length. For instance, 'WHIP', 'BEAT', and 'LASH' are 4 letters, while 'THRASH' is 6 letters and 'SCOURGE' is 7 letters. Always consider the number of letters given in the crossword puzzle grid before trying an answer.
How can I distinguish between similar 'flog' answers like 'WHIP' and 'LASH'?
The surrounding letters in the crossword grid are your best guide. Also, pay close attention to any subtle nuances in the clue itself. 'WHIP' might imply the use of a specific tool, whereas 'LASH' can be a more general forceful strike or even refer to a verbal scolding (a 'tongue-lashing'). Context is key.