pains crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "pains," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to crack your puzzle.
Solutions for "pains crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WOES: Troubles, sorrows, or mental suffering.
5 Letters
ACHES: Common physical discomfort or soreness, often implying a dull, persistent pain.
6 Letters
THROES: Intense suffering or a state of violent spasm, typically used in phrases like "in the throes of."
STINGS: Sharp, piercing pains, often associated with insect bites or nettles.
7 Letters
AGONIES: Extreme physical or mental suffering, often prolonged and intense.
TORMENT: Severe physical or mental suffering, often inflicted or experienced as distress.
More About "pains crossword clue"
The word "pains" is a versatile clue in crosswords, capable of referring to both physical discomfort and emotional distress. This duality is what makes it a challenging yet common entry. When encountering "pains," successful solvers consider the broader context of the puzzle: Is it a medical-themed crossword? Is the clue part of a longer phrase? The answer might range from simple physical aches to deeper, more abstract woes.
Understanding the nuances of synonyms is key. For instance, "aches" typically implies a dull, persistent physical sensation, while "throes" suggests a more intense, struggling kind of pain. Emotional "pains" often lean towards words like "woes" or "agonies," reflecting a state of profound sorrow or suffering. Always consider the letter count, as this is often the ultimate decider between several plausible answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms broadly: For clues like "pains," think beyond the obvious. Are there synonyms for physical pain (ache, throb, sting) or emotional pain (grief, sorrow, woe, anguish)?
- Check letter count carefully: Once you have a few potential answers, match them precisely to the number of letters indicated. This is the fastest way to narrow down options.
- Look for contextual clues: The words surrounding "pains" in the clue (e.g., "muscle pains," "heart pains") or the theme of the overall puzzle can guide you to the correct interpretation.
- Cross-reference with intersecting words: If you've solved adjacent clues, use their letters to confirm or eliminate possibilities for "pains."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'pains' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'pains' can often lead to answers like ACHES, WOES, THROES, SUFFERING, TRIBULATIONS, or AGONIES, depending on the number of letters and context.
How do I distinguish between physical and emotional 'pains' when solving?
Look for accompanying words in the clue. Terms like 'body,' 'joint,' or 'injury' suggest physical pain, while 'heartbreak,' 'grief,' 'troubles,' or 'sorrow' point to emotional or mental suffering.
Are there common phrases involving 'pains' used as crossword clues?
Yes, common crossword phrases might include 'growing pains,' 'labor pains,' 'pains in the neck' (for annoyances), or even 'taking pains' (meaning being careful or diligent), which could lead to answers like CARE or EFFORT.