frightens crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "frightens crossword clue" to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "frightens crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SCARES: To cause sudden fear or apprehension in someone.
ALARMS: To fill with apprehension or fear; disturb or frighten.
DAUNTS: To make (someone) feel intimidated or apprehensive.
SHOCKS: To cause (someone) to feel surprised and upset or disgusted.
7 Letters
APPALLS: To greatly dismay or horrify.
9 Letters
TERRIFIES: To cause to feel extreme fear.
HORRIFIES: To fill with horror; shock or disgust intensely.
PETRIFIES: To make someone so frightened that they are unable to move or think.
11 Letters
INTIMIDATES: To frighten or overawe (someone), especially in order to make them do what one wants.
More About "frightens crossword clue"
The clue "frightens" in a crossword puzzle typically asks for a verb that describes the act of causing fear or apprehension. Crossword constructors love this type of clue because it allows for a wide range of synonyms, varying in intensity and nuance. From a mild startle to deep terror, the possible answers can span several letter counts, making it a versatile clue for different puzzle difficulties.
Understanding the context of the puzzle can be key. Is it a quick, easy puzzle, or a more cryptic and challenging one? The style of the crossword can often hint at whether the answer will be a common, everyday synonym like "SCARES" or a more sophisticated word like "INTIMIDATES." Always consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you might already have filled in.
Sometimes, clues like "frightens" might have a double meaning or be part of a pun. While less common for direct synonym clues, being aware of wordplay is always an advantage in crosswords. If a direct synonym doesn't fit, think about actions that could lead to fright, or even a less literal interpretation of the word.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters you need for the answer. This is the most crucial step in narrowing down possibilities for clues like "frightens."
- Consider Synonyms and Tenses: Brainstorm various synonyms for the clue, and pay close attention to the verb tense. "Frightens" is present tense, so its answer should also be.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have any letters filled in from intersecting clues, use them as a guide. They can quickly confirm or rule out potential answers.
- Think About Nuance: Some words for 'frightens' imply different levels of fear (e.g., 'daunts' suggests intimidation, 'terrifies' suggests extreme fear). This can help when multiple words fit the letter count.
- Consult a Thesaurus: If you're stuck, a quick look at a thesaurus can provide a plethora of synonyms you might not have considered, especially for common words like "frightens."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'frightens' mean in a crossword context?
'Frightens' is a verb meaning to cause fear or alarm. In crosswords, clues like this often look for synonyms or words that describe the act of instilling fear, such as 'scares', 'alarms', 'daunts', or 'terrifies'. Pay attention to the tense and plurality of the clue.
How can I find more answers for 'frightens' if these don't fit?
If the provided answers don't match your puzzle, consider the number of letters you need. Also, think about less common synonyms or phrases. Sometimes, 'frightens' might be part of a larger idiom or a more nuanced definition. Try using a crossword dictionary or an online solver with your known letters.
Are there common synonyms for 'frightens' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms frequently appearing in crosswords include SCARES, ALARMS, DAUNTS, TERRIFIES, INTIMIDATES, and sometimes even SPOOKS or SHOCKS, depending on the formality and context of the puzzle.