crossword clue irritable – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "irritable", categorized by letter count. Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just curious about possible answers, we've got you covered with precise definitions and helpful explanations.
Solutions for "crossword clue irritable" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TESTY: Easily annoyed or angered; impatient and bad-tempered.
6 Letters
CRANKY: Ill-tempered; prone to bad moods or eccentric behavior.
GRUMPY: Bad-tempered and sulky.
7 Letters
PEEVISH: Easily irritated, especially by unimportant things.
8 Letters
SNAPPISH: Inclined to speak or respond in an abrupt, rude, or irritable manner.
9 Letters
IRASCIBLE: Having or showing a tendency to be easily angered.
More About "crossword clue irritable"
"Irritable" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often pointing to a range of emotions from mild annoyance to a more profound state of bad temper. Clues related to emotions or personality traits are frequent in crosswords because there are many synonyms, allowing setters flexibility with letter counts. Understanding the nuances between words like "testy," "peevish," or "cranky" can be key to selecting the correct answer when faced with such a clue.
When solving, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a pun? Part of a larger theme? Or a straightforward synonym? Sometimes, the specific publication (e.g., a cryptic crossword vs. a quick crossword) can also hint at the expected complexity of the answer. Our goal is to provide you with all possible straightforward synonyms, making your puzzle-solving experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always verify the number of letters you need for the answer against the provided solutions. Even a single letter off can lead you down the wrong path.
- Consider the Nuances of Synonyms: For clues like "irritable," think about the subtle differences in meaning. Is it quick irritation (testy) or a general bad mood (grumpy)? This can help you choose between answers of the same length.
- Use Cross-References: Leverage intersecting words. If you have a few letters from a crossing word, it can quickly confirm or eliminate potential answers for "irritable."
- Don't Be Afraid to Use a Thesaurus: If you're completely stuck, a good thesaurus (online or physical) can provide a wider range of synonyms that might spark the correct answer, especially for less common words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for 'irritable' in crosswords?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because many words are synonyms or have similar meanings. 'Irritable' has several synonyms like 'testy', 'cranky', and 'peevish', which fit different letter counts in various puzzles. The specific letters you already have filled in the grid will help narrow down the correct word.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'testy' and 'cranky'?
While similar, 'testy' often implies a quick temper or easily provoked annoyance, whereas 'cranky' can suggest a more general, perhaps long-term, sour disposition or even eccentricity. Pay attention to the exact nuance of the clue, any accompanying words, and particularly the number of letters required for your puzzle.
What if none of these answers fit my crossword grid?
If our suggested answers don't fit, double-check the exact spelling of your clue. Crossword setters sometimes use specific phrases or less common synonyms. Also, consider if the clue is part of a larger phrase or a pun. Try looking for synonyms of 'irritable' that might have a different letter count or a specific context given elsewhere in your puzzle.