punish crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "punish". Whether you're stuck or just looking to verify your answer, we've got you covered with options for various word lengths.
Solutions for "punish crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FINE: To impose a monetary charge or penalty on someone as punishment for an offense.
FLOG: To beat (someone) with a whip or stick as a punishment.
6 Letters
STRIKE: To hit forcefully, often as a form of discipline or retribution.
REBATE: (Less common, but sometimes used cryptically) To reduce a debt as a form of negative consequence for a failure to perform, thus 'punishing' the entity.
7 Letters
SCOURGE: To whip or inflict severe punishment upon; also, a person or thing that causes great trouble or suffering.
CORRECT: To discipline or punish, often with the intent to reform or improve behavior.
8 Letters
CHASTISE: To reprimand severely, especially by beating; to criticize sharply.
PENALIZE: To subject to a penalty or punishment.
9 Letters
REPRIMAND: To rebuke (someone), especially officially.
10 Letters
DISCIPLINE: To train oneself or someone else to follow a set of rules or code of conduct, often involving punishment for non-compliance.
More About "punish crossword clue"
The clue "punish" is a staple in crosswords, often appearing in various forms from direct synonyms to more nuanced or cryptic interpretations. When encountering this clue, solvers should consider the broader spectrum of what "punish" entails: from physical chastisement (like SCOURGE or FLOG) to legal penalties (FINE, PENALIZE) and even verbal reprimands (CHASTISE, REPRIMAND). The context of the puzzle, including any intersecting letters, will be crucial in narrowing down the correct answer.
Sometimes, "punish" might refer to the act of setting right or correcting behavior through consequence, leading to answers like CORRECT or DISCIPLINE. Crossword setters love to play with these layers of meaning, so always be prepared to think beyond the most obvious synonyms. Examining the surrounding clues can often provide hints as to whether a physical, legal, or behavioral interpretation is intended.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by noting the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your strongest clues and often confirm or deny potential answers for "punish".
- Think of Synonyms & Antonyms: For direct clues like "punish", brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. Sometimes, a clue might also imply the opposite or a consequence, so consider related concepts.
- Check for Homonyms/Puns: If it's a cryptic crossword, "punish" might be a pun or homonym. For example, 'pun' is part of 'punish', hinting at wordplay.
- Don't Be Afraid to Use Resources: If you're truly stuck, resources like Crosswordanswer.co.uk are here to help you learn and complete your puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'punish' mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, 'punish' typically refers to actions that inflict penalties, discipline, or retribution. Common synonyms include 'chastise', 'reprimand', 'scourge', 'fine', or 'penalize', varying by letter count and context.
How do I find the correct 'punish' answer in a crossword?
To solve clues like 'punish', consider the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you already have. Think of direct synonyms, and also consider more abstract meanings if it's a cryptic clue, such as 'correct' or 'discipline'.
Are there common tricky synonyms for 'punish'?
Yes, 'punish' can have nuanced synonyms like 'correct' (to punish for correction), 'lash' (to strike or scold), or 'penalize'. Always cross-reference with other completed words in the puzzle to ensure the best fit.