malevolent crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "malevolent," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "malevolent crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EVIL: Something morally bad, harmful, or wicked. Often used in crosswords for a simple synonym of malevolent.
6 Letters
MALIGN: To speak harmful untruths about; evil in nature or effect. A direct synonym frequently appearing in puzzles.
WICKED: Evil or morally wrong. A common and straightforward synonym often found in crosswords.
7 Letters
BALEFUL: Threatening harm; menacing. Captures the harmful intent aspect of malevolent.
8 Letters
SINISTER: Giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen. Evokes a sense of malevolence.
More About "malevolent crossword clue"
The word "malevolent" describes someone or something wishing evil or harm to others. It stems from the Latin words "malus" (bad) and "velle" (to wish), perfectly encapsulating its meaning. In crosswords, clues involving "malevolent" often look for synonyms that convey a sense of ill-will, malice, or a harmful nature.
Crossword setters enjoy using words like "malevolent" because they have a rich array of synonyms, allowing for flexibility in clueing. Depending on the puzzle's difficulty and the available letter count, answers can range from common words like "EVIL" to more sophisticated terms such as "MALIGN" or "SINISTER." Paying attention to the exact nuance the clue suggests can be key to selecting the correct answer among similar options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters in your potential answer against the required length for the grid. This is often the first and most critical step.
- Consider Nuance: While many words can be general synonyms for "malevolent," think if the clue implies a specific type of malevolence (e.g., actively harmful, threatening, or merely ill-willed). This can help narrow down options.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues. These are crucial hints that can confirm or reject a potential answer for "malevolent."
- Think About Word Forms: Is the clue looking for an adjective, a noun, or a verb? "Malevolent" is an adjective, but a clue might ask for a related noun like "malice" or a verb like "malign."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'malevolent' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'malevolent' typically points to synonyms meaning evil, ill-willed, malicious, or harmful. Common answers include EVIL, MALIGN, WICKED, or SINISTER, depending on the letter count and other intersecting clues.
How can I quickly find synonyms for 'malevolent' in crosswords?
Start by considering common synonyms for 'evil' or 'harmful'. Look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific nuance like 'ill-willed' or 'spiteful', guiding you to more precise answers.
Are there common tricks with 'malevolent' clues in crosswords?
Crossword setters sometimes use words that sound similar but have different meanings, or they might use a less common synonym to make it harder. For 'malevolent', be aware of words like 'malign' (verb or adjective) or 'baleful', which might be less common than 'evil' but fit the meaning perfectly.