express contempt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with 'express contempt' in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a complete list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to ensure you pick the right one for your puzzle. Let us help you conquer that tricky clue!
Solutions for "express contempt crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SCOFF: To mock or show disdain for someone or something, often through derisive remarks.
SNEER: To smile or speak in a contemptuous or mocking manner, typically with a curled lip.
SCORN: To feel or express contempt or derision for something or someone, often implying a feeling of worthlessness.
DECRY: To publicly denounce or criticize as faulty or worthless, often in a formal or strong manner.
7 Letters
DESPISE: To feel contempt or a deep repugnance for, signifying a strong feeling of dislike and disrespect.
More About "express contempt crossword clue"
The clue "express contempt" often leads solvers to words that convey disdain, mockery, or a strong lack of respect. These can range from subtle non-verbal actions to outright verbal denouncements. Common crossword answers tend to be direct verbs that encapsulate this feeling, making them ideal for the concise nature of crossword puzzles.
Understanding the nuances between answers like "scoff" (which implies mocking through speech), "sneer" (often a facial expression), and "despise" (a deep-seated feeling of loathing) is crucial. While all express contempt, the specific action or intensity can vary, and a good crossword setter will often hint at this distinction through other parts of the clue or intersecting letters.
When you encounter this clue, consider the number of letters and any already filled-in characters in the grid. This will often narrow down your options to the perfect fit among the many synonyms available for expressing disdain.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: "Express contempt" is a verb phrase, so you'll be looking for a verb as your answer (e.g., SCOFF, SNEER, DESPISE). Always identify the grammatical role of the clue.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct synonym doesn't immediately come to mind, sometimes thinking about antonyms (e.g., "respect," "admire") can help you pivot back to words that mean the opposite of contempt.
- Look at Common Crossword Lengths: Clues like this often have popular 5 or 7-letter answers. If you have only a few letters, try brainstorming shorter, more common words first.
- Use Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm your answer is by using the letters provided by intersecting words. If 'SCOFF' fits, but the second letter doesn't match an intersecting 'C', then it's not the right answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common answers for 'express contempt' in crosswords?
The most common answers for 'express contempt' in crosswords often include SCOFF, SNEER, SCORN (all 5 letters), and DESPISE (7 letters). These words directly convey the action of showing disdain or mockery.
How do I determine the correct length for a crossword answer like 'express contempt'?
The correct length for a crossword answer is indicated by the grid itself or by numbers provided next to the clue. If you see 'express contempt (5)', you know the answer is five letters long. If multiple answers fit, contextual clues from intersecting words are essential.
Are there different shades of meaning for 'express contempt' in crossword clues?
Yes, 'express contempt' can range from mild disdain to strong abhorrence. Crossword setters might use synonyms that imply specific levels, like 'scoff' for light mockery versus 'despise' for deep loathing. Always consider the precise nuance of the word the clue is looking for.