excite or disturb crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "excite or disturb" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "excite or disturb crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROIL: To make a liquid turbid or muddy by disturbing the sediment; figuratively, to make angry or irritable or disturb greatly.
7 Letters
AGITATE: To make (someone) troubled or nervous; to stir or disturb vigorously.
PERTURB: To make (someone) anxious or unsettled; to disturb the order or arrangement of.
10 Letters
DISCOMPOSE: To disturb or agitate (someone); to upset the composure of.
More About "excite or disturb crossword clue"
The clue "excite or disturb" is a classic example of a crossword clue that can have multiple interpretations, leading to various answers. It often points to verbs that describe a state of emotional or physical agitation, or even a literal stirring. Recognizing the dual nature of 'excite' (positive arousal) and 'disturb' (negative agitation) is key. Crossword setters often use such clues to test your vocabulary range and your ability to consider synonyms that cover a spectrum of meanings.
When you encounter a clue like this, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a punny clue, or a straightforward synonym? The answers provided, such as AGITATE, PERTURB, ROIL, and DISCOMPOSE, all fit the broad definition but carry different nuances. AGITATE and PERTURB typically refer to mental or emotional disturbance, while ROIL can imply a physical stirring that leads to a disturbed state, and DISCOMPOSE directly speaks to upsetting one's calm.
Understanding these subtle differences can help you deduce the correct answer, especially when combined with the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues. This clue serves as a great reminder that crossword solving is not just about finding direct synonyms but also about appreciating the varied shades of meaning words can hold.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For "excite or disturb," notice the 'or'. This means the answer could lean towards either 'excitement' (like 'arouse') or 'disturbance' (like 'agitate'). Check if other clues in the puzzle hint at a particular mood.
- Consider Letter Count Carefully: Even if you know a perfect synonym, it won't fit if the letter count is wrong. Always double-check the number of boxes. Our answer groupings by letter count make this easier.
- Use Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm a multi-option clue like this is to fill in words that cross your potential answer. If 'A' from another word intersects, then 'AGITATE' is more likely than 'PERTURB'.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes, clues like 'excite or disturb' require you to think about actions that cause excitement or disturbance, rather than just the state itself. For example, 'stir' can 'excite' (a crowd) or 'disturb' (a liquid).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'excite or disturb' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'excite or disturb' often points to verbs that imply an emotional or physical agitation, unsettling, or even a literal stirring, like 'agitate,' 'perturb,' or 'stir.'
Are there common synonyms for 'excite or disturb' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms to look for include 'unsettle,' 'rattle,' 'disquiet,' 'fluster,' 'stir,' 'arouse,' or 'worry,' depending on the letter count and the specific nuance of the puzzle's theme.
How do I choose the right answer when there are multiple possibilities for a 'excite or disturb' clue?
To pick the correct answer, always check the intersecting letters from other solved clues. Also, consider the specific context or tone of the puzzle; sometimes 'excite' might imply a positive arousal, while 'disturb' clearly indicates a negative agitation.