intimidating crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "intimidating crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "intimidating crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GRIM: Forbidding or uninviting in appearance or manner.
5 Letters
STERN: Serious and uncompromising, especially in enforcing discipline; having a forbidding appearance or manner.
TOUGH: Difficult and requiring much effort or skill.
8 Letters
DAUNTING: Causing one to lose courage; frightening.
MENACING: Suggesting the presence of danger; threatening.
11 Letters
CHALLENGING: Testing one's abilities; demanding.
More About "intimidating crossword clue"
The term "intimidating" in a crossword clue often points to answers that convey a sense of fear, difficulty, or a commanding presence. These clues can range from straightforward synonyms to more nuanced interpretations requiring you to consider various shades of meaning, abstract concepts, or even the feeling a person or situation might evoke.
Sometimes, an "intimidating" clue might not refer to a direct synonym but rather to something that makes one feel intimidated, like a difficult task or a stern look. The context of the puzzle and any intersecting letters are crucial in pinpointing the precise answer the setter intended.
Understanding these subtleties is key to mastering such clues. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive list of possibilities, encompassing various word lengths and interpretations, to ensure you're never truly stumped by an intimidating clue again.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Start with the easiest clues: Fill in answers you're confident about first. These letters will provide hints for the more challenging, potentially "intimidating" clues.
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: An intimidating clue might require an answer that is a direct synonym, but sometimes the answer is an antonym if the clue implies the opposite.
- Look for wordplay cues: Be alert for indicators of anagrams, hidden words, or puns, especially if the clue feels particularly tricky. Cryptic clues often use misdirection.
- Utilize a thesaurus: If a clue points to a characteristic like "intimidating," a thesaurus can quickly present a wide array of synonyms and related terms, expanding your options beyond the obvious.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crossword clue "intimidating"?
Intimidating crossword clues often involve obscure vocabulary, complex wordplay, puns, or require a very specific interpretation to find the correct answer. They might also appear in advanced cryptic crosswords, testing solvers with their unique logic.
How can I overcome an intimidating crossword clue?
To overcome an intimidating clue, try breaking it down: identify the word length, look for synonyms, consider different parts of speech, and use cross-references from already solved letters. Sometimes, taking a break and returning with fresh eyes can help.
Are there different types of intimidating clues?
Yes, intimidating clues can vary from those using highly specialized jargon, very subtle allusions, or deceptive wordplay (like homophones or anagrams disguised cleverly). Cryptic crossword clues are often considered the most intimidating due to their complex, dual meanings.