doubt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the "doubt" crossword clue? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers for this common clue, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "doubt crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
QUALM: A feeling of uneasiness or apprehension.
6 Letters
SHADOW: A slight trace or remnant, as in 'shadow of a doubt'.
7 Letters
SUSPECT: To believe without proof; to have reservations.
8 Letters
MISTRUST: Lack of confidence or belief.
DISTRUST: To regard as untrustworthy.
QUESTION: To express doubt about; to challenge.
10 Letters
SCEPTICISM: A questioning attitude or state of doubt.
More About "doubt crossword clue"
"Doubt" is a frequent visitor in crossword puzzles due to its rich semantic field. It can refer to a state of uncertainty, a lack of conviction, or an act of questioning. Crossword setters love words like 'doubt' because they offer a wide array of synonyms (like 'qualm', 'misgiving', 'skepticism') and antonyms, allowing for clever clueing. The context of the clue, whether it's 'a feeling of doubt' or 'to doubt a statement', will often steer you towards the precise answer.
Beyond simple synonyms, 'doubt' can appear in idiomatic expressions, such as 'shadow of a doubt', which might lead to 'SHADOW' as an answer, or phrases implying suspicion, like 'to doubt someone's word', which could suggest 'MISTRUST' or 'SUSPECT'. Being aware of these common usages can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process when encountering this clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: Consider if the clue implies a noun (a feeling of doubt) or a verb (to doubt someone). This distinction can often narrow down your options significantly.
- Check Word Length: Always cross-reference the number of letters required by the puzzle grid with the potential answers. This is your most reliable filter.
- Look for Contextual Hints: Does the clue include words that suggest a specific type of doubt (e.g., "philosophical doubt" pointing to SCEPTICISM, or "legal doubt" to SHADOW)?
- Use Crossing Letters: The letters from intersecting words are invaluable. If you have a few letters already filled in from other clues, they can often reveal the correct 'doubt' answer immediately.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for the 'doubt crossword clue'?
Crossword clues like 'doubt' often have multiple answers because the word has many synonyms and can be used in various contexts or idioms. The correct answer depends on the specific puzzle's letter count, crossing letters, and the overall theme or setter's style.
How can I determine the correct 'doubt' answer for my puzzle?
The best way to determine the correct answer is by matching the letter count provided in your puzzle. Additionally, check for any intersecting letters from solved clues, as these will confirm the exact word. Sometimes, the nuance of the clue (e.g., 'a feeling of doubt' vs. 'to doubt someone') can also guide you.
Is 'doubt' always a negative term in crosswords?
While 'doubt' often carries a negative connotation of uncertainty or suspicion, it can also appear in more neutral contexts, such as 'beyond a shadow of a doubt' (certainty) or philosophical 'skepticism' which implies critical thinking. Crossword setters might play on these different shades of meaning.