cruel crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find the most comprehensive list of solutions for the "cruel crossword clue," helping you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. We provide answers broken down by letter count, along with clear explanations.
Solutions for "cruel crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MEAN: Lacking kindness or empathy.
5 Letters
HARSH: Unpleasant, severe, or rigorous.
6 Letters
BRUTAL: Savagely violent or cruel.
UNKIND: Not kind; harsh or inconsiderate.
7 Letters
VICIOUS: Deliberately cruel or violent.
INHUMAN: Lacking human qualities of compassion and kindness.
9 Letters
MERCILESS: Showing no mercy or pity.
More About "cruel crossword clue"
"Cruel" is a versatile word in crosswords, often prompting a range of synonyms that reflect different intensities of unkindness or severity. From a simple lack of empathy to outright savagery, the context of the clue usually guides you to the precise answer. Understanding these nuances is key to solving puzzles that feature this common adjective.
Clues for "cruel" can sometimes be direct definitions, but they might also hint at the effect of cruelty, such as a "cruel blow" or a "cruel fate." Expanding your vocabulary around synonyms for 'cruel' will significantly improve your ability to tackle these types of clues quickly and confidently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by noting the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options for "cruel" synonyms.
- Consider Nuance: Think about the specific shade of meaning. Is the clue implying a general lack of kindness (MEAN, UNKIND), or something more severe and violent (BRUTAL, VICIOUS)?
- Look for Contextual Hints: The words surrounding "cruel" in the clue can provide vital clues. Phrases like "showing no pity" might lead to MERCILESS, while "savagely" could point to BRUTAL.
- Check Cross-References: If you have intersecting letters from other solved clues, use them to confirm your chosen "cruel" answer. This is a fundamental crossword strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "cruel" often imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, "cruel" can indicate a range of meanings from unkindness to severe brutality. It often points to synonyms like harsh, mean, brutal, vicious, or merciless, but can also hint at actions or qualities associated with lack of compassion or extreme difficulty.
How can I distinguish between similar "cruel" synonyms?
Pay close attention to the number of letters required and any additional context in the clue. For example, 'MEAN' is short and general, while 'MERCILESS' implies a complete lack of pity. The tone of the clue (e.g., 'savagely cruel' vs. 'unkind') can guide you to the most precise synonym.
Are there common tricks with "cruel" clues?
Sometimes "cruel" can be part of a phrase or an anagram, though less common for a straightforward definition. Look out for clues that combine "cruel" with another word to form a less obvious answer. Also, consider both literal and figurative interpretations, such as a "cruel" twist of fate.