crossword clue nag – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on 'crossword clue nag'? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all possible answers for this clue, complete with explanations and letter counts, to help you swiftly complete your puzzle and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue nag" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HARP: To persistently complain or dwell on a subject, often tediously.
CARP: To find fault or complain in a nagging way about trivial matters.
5 Letters
CHIDE: To scold or rebuke someone gently but persistently.
CAVIL: To make unnecessary objections or find fault in a petty way.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy someone with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
BOTHER: To cause trouble, annoyance, or inconvenience to someone.
GARRON: An old or worn-out horse, or a small, sturdy pony (a less common but valid meaning of 'nag').
9 Letters
CRITICISE: To point out faults or imperfections, often in a persistent and nagging manner.
More About "crossword clue nag"
"Nag" is a fascinating crossword clue due to its dual meanings, which can often trip up even seasoned solvers. On one hand, it refers to the act of persistently annoying or bothering someone with complaints or demands. This is its most common usage in everyday language and crosswords, leading to answers like PESTER, BOTHER, or HARP.
On the other hand, "nag" can also mean an old, worn-out, or inferior horse. This older, equestrian sense is less common but still appears in puzzles, sometimes requiring more obscure synonyms like GARRON. The context of the surrounding clue or any connecting letters are crucial for deciphering which meaning the puzzle setter intends.
Understanding these distinct definitions and their associated synonyms is key to mastering clues like "nag." By considering both the human-interaction and the equine interpretations, you can greatly improve your chances of solving the puzzle correctly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always remember that many short words, like "nag," have more than one common meaning. Before settling on an answer, consider all possible interpretations (e.g., 'nag' as an annoying person vs. an old horse).
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes the answer to a connecting clue, or a shared letter, can reveal the correct meaning or the specific letter length you need for "nag." This is especially useful for words with multiple senses.
- Think About Word Length: If you have some letters already filled in, use the length constraint as a powerful tool to narrow down your options quickly. For "nag," answers can range significantly in length, from 4-letter words like HARP to longer ones like CRITICISE.
- Utilize a Thesaurus: For clues that hint at synonyms, like "nag," consulting a thesaurus (mental or physical) for both its meanings can unearth less obvious but perfectly valid answers.
For more advice on tackling various clue types and general solving techniques, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "nag" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "nag" commonly refers to persistently bothering or complaining. Less frequently, it can refer to an old or worn-out horse. The surrounding clue will usually provide context to determine the correct meaning.
How do I know if "nag" refers to a horse or complaining in a crossword?
Look for additional cues in the clue itself. If it contains words like "old horse," "steed," "equine," or "pony," the answer likely relates to the animal. If the clue suggests "pester," "scold," "bother," "complain," or "harp," it refers to the act of persistent annoyance or criticism.
Are there common synonyms for "nag" used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms for the 'bothering' sense include PESTER, BOTHER, CHIDE, HARP, CARP, and CRITICISE. For the 'horse' sense, GARRON is a possible, though less common, answer.