scold crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "scold crossword", you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and improve your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "scold crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RAP: To criticize or blame sharply, often in an informal manner, like "to rap someone on the knuckles."
5 Letters
CHIDE: To express mild disapproval of someone, often gently urging them to do better.
6 Letters
BERATE: To scold or criticize someone angrily and at length, often implying harsh language.
7 Letters
UPBRAID: To find fault with someone, or to scold them, often in a formal or severe manner.
9 Letters
REPRIMAND: A formal act of disapproval or a severe reproof, especially by an authority.
More About "scold crossword"
The clue "scold" is a very common one in crosswords, appearing in various forms from quick daily puzzles to more challenging cryptic varieties. Its versatility stems from the numerous synonyms available in the English language that carry slightly different nuances of disapproval or criticism. This often requires solvers to consider the precise context or additional words in the clue, such as "gently scold" or "harshly scold," to pinpoint the exact answer.
Understanding the subtle differences between words like 'chide,' 'rebuke,' 'berate,' and 'admonish' is key to mastering this type of clue. While all imply some form of telling someone off, the intensity and formality vary greatly. For instance, 'chide' suggests a mild, perhaps even affectionate, correction, whereas 'berate' implies a much more severe and often angry verbal attack. Keep these nuances in mind when encountering "scold" in your next puzzle.
Furthermore, it's worth noting that "scold" can also function as a noun, referring to a person (historically, often a woman) who habitually nags or quarrels. If your clue points towards a person rather than an action, this alternative meaning might be the intended answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial filter for 'scold' clues, as it immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Look for Nuance in the Clue: Pay attention to adverbs or adjectives paired with 'scold' (e.g., "gently scold," "harshly scold," "publicly scold"). These modifiers will guide you to a more precise synonym like CHIDE (gentle) versus REPRIMAND (public/formal).
- Check for Anagrams or Wordplay: While 'scold' is often a straightforward synonym clue, in more advanced puzzles, it might be part of an anagram or other wordplay. If common synonyms don't fit, think creatively about the letters.
- Consider the Part of Speech: As mentioned, 'scold' can be a verb or a noun. Is the clue asking for an action (e.g., "Tell off") or a person (e.g., "Nagger")? This distinction is vital for accuracy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'scold' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'scold' found in crosswords often include CHIDE, REBUKE, BERATE, ADMONISH, REPRIMAND, UPBRAID, and even simpler terms like RAP or RATE. The length of the answer will typically narrow down the options.
How does the clue 'scold' differ from 'admonish' or 'rebuke' in puzzles?
While all terms relate to expressing disapproval, 'scold' is often a general term. 'Admonish' implies a milder, more gentle warning or advice, whereas 'rebuke' or 'berate' suggest a more severe or angry reproof. Crossword setters use these nuances to guide you to the precise answer, often by adding adverbs like 'gently scold' or 'harshly scold'.
Can 'scold' be used as a noun in crossword clues?
Yes, 'scold' can function as a noun, referring to a person, typically a woman, who habitually nags or quarrels. Clues might use phrases like 'Nagger' or 'Shrew' to lead to 'SCOLD' as an answer. Always consider both verb and noun forms when tackling such clues.