provoking crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "provoking" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "provoking crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
VEXING: Causing annoyance, frustration, or worry.
7 Letters
GOADING: Provoking or annoying someone to stimulate a reaction.
8 Letters
INCITING: Encouraging or stirring up a strong reaction, often negative.
10 Letters
IRRITATING: Causing annoyance, impatience, or mild anger.
More About "provoking crossword clue"
"Provoking" as a crossword clue often refers to an action that stirs up a response, whether it be anger, curiosity, or defiance. It can imply a deliberate act designed to elicit a reaction, or simply describe something that inherently causes a strong feeling. When you encounter this clue, consider synonyms related to stirring, inciting, annoying, or challenging.
The nuance of "provoking" can vary depending on the crossword setter. Sometimes it leans towards an irritating or annoying quality, while other times it might suggest a challenge or an act of incitement. Paying attention to the context of other clues in the puzzle and the general tone of the puzzle can help narrow down the possibilities.
Always remember that crosswords thrive on wordplay. A "provoking" clue might not always be literal; it could be part of a pun or a cryptic definition. Thinking outside the box and considering less common synonyms or related concepts can sometimes unlock the trickiest answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters provided in the grid to potential answers. This is the fastest way to eliminate many incorrect possibilities.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: "Provoking" can have many synonyms. Think about words that mean "to annoy," "to stir up," "to challenge," or "to incite." Sometimes, the clue might even hint at an antonym if it's a trickier clue.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're unsure about an answer, fill in the letters from crossing words you've already solved. These letters provide critical clues and often make the correct answer for "provoking" obvious.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is "provoking" being used as a verb (e.g., 'inciting'), an adjective (e.g., 'vexing'), or a noun (less common, but possible)? This can help narrow down your word choices significantly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'provoking' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'provoking' often hints at synonyms for actions that stir, annoy, incite, or challenge. It can refer to causing a strong reaction, whether negative (like anger or irritation) or positive (like inspiring action or thought).
How do I determine the correct length for a 'provoking' answer?
The number of letters in the answer is always crucial. If you have several possible words that fit the 'provoking' theme, check the given letter count in the puzzle grid. Cross-referencing with intersecting words from other clues is also key to confirming your choice.
Can 'provoking' have multiple meanings in crosswords?
Yes, like many clues, 'provoking' can have nuances. It might refer to an action, a state of being, or an adjective describing something. Cryptic clues might use it in a more figurative or pun-based way, so always consider the overall clue type and surrounding words.