loath crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "loath crossword clue" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "loath crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HATE: To feel intense aversion or dislike for someone or something.
5 Letters
AVERS: Having a strong dislike of or opposition to something.
ABHOR: To regard with disgust and hatred; to detest.
7 Letters
DESPISE: To feel contempt or a deep repugnance for.
More About "loath crossword clue"
"Loath" is a versatile adjective in the English language, signifying reluctance or an unwillingness to do something, or a strong aversion. In crosswords, it often serves as a straightforward synonym clue, guiding solvers to words that express a similar sentiment of dislike or strong opposition. Understanding its nuances, such as its distinction from "loth" (an archaic spelling sometimes encountered) or its relation to the verb "loathe" (to feel intense dislike or disgust for), can be crucial for selecting the correct answer.
This clue frequently appears in various puzzle difficulties, from daily quick crosswords to more complex cryptic ones. The key to solving it lies in considering the exact shade of meaning required by the puzzle's theme or other crossing letters. For instance, while 'hate' is a strong emotion, 'averse' implies a disinclination. Paying attention to the context provided by the grid and other clues will always lead you to the best fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For clues like "loath," think broadly about words that mean similar things (hate, dislike) or their opposites (eager, fond) if the clue includes a negative.
- Check for archaic spellings: Sometimes, older or less common spellings like 'LOTH' might be the answer. Always keep an eye out for these, especially in puzzles known for obscure vocabulary.
- Match the intensity: Does the clue imply strong hatred or just a mild disinclination? The intensity of 'loath' can range, and your answer should reflect that. For example, 'abhor' is stronger than 'averse'.
- Use crossing letters wisely: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting words are your best friends. They will quickly narrow down the possibilities for "loath" to the exact word fitting the grid.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'loath' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'loath' typically refers to a strong disinclination or aversion towards something or someone. Clues might use synonyms like 'unwilling,' 'reluctant,' 'averse,' or 'disinclined.' It's often looking for words that express strong dislike or opposition.
Are there common synonyms for 'loath' often used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'loath' found in crosswords include HATE, AVERS, ABHOR, DESPISE, UNWILLING, RELUCTANT, and LOTH (an archaic spelling). The specific answer will depend on the required letter count and any crossing letters.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like AVERS and ABHOR?
While both AVERS and ABHOR imply strong dislike, 'avers' often suggests a disinclination or turning away from something (e.g., 'averse to change'), while 'abhor' implies a more intense feeling of disgust or hatred. The nuance of the clue and surrounding letters usually helps distinguish them.