crossword clue for malice – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "malice," along with explanations to help you understand the nuances of each answer. Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just curious, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "crossword clue for malice" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HATE: A strong feeling of intense dislike or aversion. Often a direct synonym for malice in crosswords.
ENVY: A feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, or luck. Can be a form of malice if it leads to ill will.
5 Letters
SPITE: A desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone. Closely related to malice, especially when acts are done out of meanness.
VENOM: Extreme malice or bitterness. Often used metaphorically to describe hateful words or feelings.
6 Letters
GRUDGE: A persistent feeling of ill will or resentment resulting from a past insult or injury. A long-held form of malice.
7 Letters
ILLWILL: Unfriendly feeling; antagonism. A straightforward synonym for malice, emphasizing bad intentions.
8 Letters
ACRIMONY: Bitterness or ill feeling. Often describes a sharp and hostile manner, stemming from malice.
11 Letters
MALEVOLENCE: The state or condition of being malevolent; ill will; hatred. A direct and strong synonym for malice, emphasizing a desire to do evil.
More About "crossword clue for malice"
The term "malice" in crosswords frequently points to answers that convey ill will, a desire to harm, or general malevolence. It's a common clue because it has a rich set of synonyms across various lengths, making it versatile for puzzle constructors. Understanding the subtle differences between words like 'spite,' 'envy,' and 'hate' can be crucial for selecting the correct answer.
When you encounter "malice" as a clue, consider not just its primary definition but also its contextual implications. For instance, is the puzzle hinting at a deep-seated resentment (GRUDGE), a quick act of meanness (SPITE), or a general animosity (ILLWILL)? The surrounding clues and the number of letters required will always be your best guides.
Crossword puzzles often play on these nuances, sometimes even using a more obscure synonym to challenge solvers. Familiarizing yourself with a wide range of terms related to negative emotions and intentions can significantly improve your success rate with clues like "malice."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always double-check the number of boxes provided for the answer. This is your primary filter for potential solutions like those for 'malice'.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by other solved clues are invaluable. They can confirm your suspicions or eliminate incorrect guesses for 'malice'.
- Consider Nuances of Meaning: While many words are synonyms for 'malice', some might fit a specific context better. Think about the specific shade of meaning – is it about general bad feeling, active harm, or resentment?
- Explore Similar Clues: If 'malice' isn't fitting, try to think of other ways the concept might be clued (e.g., 'ill will', 'animosity', 'hatred'). Sometimes, looking at a clue from another angle helps.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary meaning of 'malice' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'malice' typically refers to the intention or desire to do evil; ill will. Common answers are direct synonyms like SPITE, HATE, or ENVY, depending on the letter count.
Why might 'malice' have multiple answers?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid synonyms of varying lengths. 'Malice' is a concept with many related terms (e.g., bitterness, ill will, malevolence), allowing for diverse solutions depending on the puzzle's specific needs and letter constraints.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'SPITE' and 'ENVY' for 'malice'?
Look at the intersecting letters from other clues in the puzzle. If the clue hints at an action done purely to cause harm, SPITE is likely. If it's more about resentment over someone else's success, ENVY fits better. The context of the surrounding words is key.