derided crossword clue 7 letters – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "derided crossword clue 7 letters" by Letter Count
7 Letters
SCOFFED: To express contempt or ridicule towards someone or something.
SNEERED: To smile or speak in a contemptuous or mocking manner.
TAUNTED: To provoke or challenge someone with insulting remarks.
More About "derided crossword clue 7 letters"
The word "derided" implies a past action of mocking, ridiculing, or treating someone or something with contempt. When this word appears in a crossword clue, setters are looking for a past tense verb that conveys a similar sense of scorn or disrespect. Common synonyms that fit the 7-letter constraint often describe an action of vocal or facial expression aimed at belittling someone.
Understanding the nuance of "derided" is key. It's not just about making fun, but often about doing so in a harsh, disdainful, or dismissive way. This particular clue is a classic example of how crosswords test your vocabulary breadth and your ability to recall precise synonyms that match specific tenses and word lengths.
Our goal is to provide not just the answer, but context that helps you understand why a particular word is the solution, enhancing your overall crossword-solving abilities for future puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Tense and Part of Speech: Notice "derided" is a past participle. Your answer will also likely be a past participle or simple past verb (e.g., SCOFFED, SNEERED, TAUNTED).
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For words like "derided," immediately think of words with similar meanings: mocked, ridiculed, scorned, belittled, etc. Then, filter these by the required letter count.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If multiple answers seem plausible for a clue, fill in letters from intersecting words you've already solved. This is often the quickest way to confirm the correct answer.
- Look for Homophones/Puns: While "derided" is quite direct, some clues use wordplay. Always be alert for clues that sound like one thing but mean another.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'derided' mean in a crossword context?
'Derided' means to be mocked, ridiculed, or treated with contempt. In crosswords, clues using 'derided' often look for past tense synonyms related to scorn or making fun of someone.
Why might there be multiple 7-letter answers for 'derided'?
English has a rich vocabulary with many synonyms, especially for common concepts like 'deriding' or 'mocking'. Different puzzle setters might have different preferred words that fit the clue's nuance and the puzzle's intersecting letters. Always check surrounding letters if multiple answers fit.
How can I be sure which 7-letter answer is correct for 'derided'?
The best way to confirm the answer is by looking at the intersecting letters from other clues you've solved. Each correct letter will narrow down the possibilities. Also, consider the specific publication or setter's style if you're familiar with it.