discouragement crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "discouragement", organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "discouragement crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BLOW: A sudden shock or disappointment, often causing discouragement.
7 Letters
SETBACK: A reversal or check in progress, leading to a feeling of discouragement.
CHAGRIN: Distress or embarrassment at having failed or been humiliated, a form of discouragement.
9 Letters
DETERRENT: A thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something.
11 Letters
DESPONDENCY: A state of low spirits arising from loss of hope or courage; utter discouragement.
More About "discouragement crossword clue"
The term "discouragement" in crosswords can be a rich source of answers, as it encompasses a wide range of feelings and situations. It's not just about feeling down; it can refer to an obstacle, a negative influence, or even an external force that prevents progress. When tackling this clue, consider both the emotional impact and the tangible reasons for a lack of motivation.
Crossword setters often use synonyms, antonyms (with appropriate indicators), or situations that lead to discouragement. For instance, a "blow" can be a discouraging event, while a "deterrent" actively discourages an action. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer among several possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "discouragement", think of words that mean the same thing (e.g., despair, dismay) and, if the clue suggests it, their opposites (e.g., encouragement, hope).
- Check Word Length: Always use the given letter count as your primary guide. If "discouragement" is a 7-letter word, you can immediately rule out longer or shorter possibilities.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters filled in from other clues are invaluable. They will often confirm or eliminate potential answers for a challenging clue like this.
- Ponder Parts of Speech: Is the clue asking for a noun, a verb, or an adjective? "Discouragement" is a noun, suggesting answers like "setback" or "despondency", rather than verbs like "deter".
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a crossword clue feels too difficult?
If a crossword clue like 'discouragement' seems too hard, try breaking it down. Look for synonyms, antonyms, or related concepts. Sometimes, stepping away and returning with fresh eyes can help. Don't be afraid to use a few helper letters from intersecting words.
How can I improve my vocabulary for crosswords?
To improve your crossword vocabulary, read widely, use a thesaurus regularly, and pay attention to word nuances. Specific to clues like 'discouragement', explore words related to emotions, states of mind, and obstacles. Regularly solving crosswords will naturally expand your lexicon.
Are there different types of 'discouragement' clues in crosswords?
Yes, 'discouragement' can be clued in various ways. It might refer to an emotional state (e.g., despondency, chagrin), an obstacle (e.g., setback, deterrent), or even a brief event (e.g., blow). Pay attention to the clue's precise wording and any indicators of part of speech or context.