scold crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for answers to the clue "scold" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "scold crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
JAW: To scold or admonish, often informally or persistently.
5 Letters
CHIDE: To express mild disapproval of someone, gently scold.
6 Letters
REBUKE: To express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone's behavior.
BERATE: To scold or criticize someone angrily and at length.
7 Letters
LECTURE: To give someone a long, serious talk, especially to criticize their actions.
UPBRAID: To find fault with someone; to scold strongly.
8 Letters
ADMONISH: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
9 Letters
REPRIMAND: A formal act or expression of disapproval.
DRESSDOWN: An informal term for a severe scolding or reprimand.
More About "scold crossword clue"
The clue "scold" is a very common one in crosswords, and it can often have multiple possible answers depending on the number of letters and the specific context of the puzzle. At its core, 'scold' refers to expressing strong disapproval, often in a verbal manner. This can range from a gentle correction to a harsh, angry dressing-down.
When encountering this clue, seasoned crossword solvers know to think of a variety of synonyms. The challenge often lies in matching the intensity of the scolding implied by the clue, or by its surrounding words, with the nuance of the available answer. For instance, 'chide' suggests a softer rebuke, while 'berate' or 'reprimand' imply a more severe telling-off. Always consider the surrounding letters and clues to narrow down the best fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: "Scold" can have gentle or harsh synonyms. Look at the surrounding clues or the overall tone of the puzzle. Is it a playful puzzle or a more formal one?
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the available squares in your grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Look for Prefixes/Suffixes: Sometimes, the clue might imply a verb form (e.g., "to scold") or a noun form (e.g., "a scolding"). Be mindful of these subtle hints.
- Utilize Intersecting Words: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is using letters from intersecting words to confirm or deny potential answers for "scold."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'scold' mean in a crossword context?
'Scold' in a crossword clue typically refers to an act of expressing disapproval or criticism, often verbally. Common synonyms used as answers include 'reprimand,' 'chide,' 'rebuke,' 'berate,' 'admonish,' or even more informal terms like 'jaw' or 'dress down.' The exact answer depends on the available letters and the specific puzzle's style.
How do I find the right length answer for a 'scold' clue?
To find the correct answer length for 'scold,' first check the number of boxes available in your crossword grid. Then, consider synonyms of 'scold' that fit that specific letter count. For instance, if you need a 5-letter word, 'CHIDE' might be a good fit. If it's a 6-letter word, 'REBUKE' or 'BERATE' are possibilities. Always cross-reference with intersecting words to confirm.
Are there other common synonyms for 'scold' used in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords often use a wide range of synonyms for 'scold.' Besides the common ones like CHIDE, REBUKE, and REPRIMAND, you might encounter words like LECTURE, ADMONISH, UPBRAID, RAIL (as in 'rail against'), BERATE, or even informal terms like JAW or DRESSDOWN. The specific synonym chosen will depend on the puzzle's difficulty and available space.