stings crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find all possible answers and detailed explanations for the clue "stings crossword clue", categorized by their letter count. Let's conquer that puzzle together!
Solutions for "stings crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BEE: An insect well-known for its ability to sting.
5 Letters
HURTS: Causes pain or injury, which is the immediate effect of a sting.
BITES: To pierce or cut with teeth, often associated with an insect's action that can feel like a sting.
6 Letters
WOUNDS: Injuries, often punctures or cuts, which a severe sting can cause.
7 Letters
POISONS: Substances that can harm or kill, referring to the venom delivered by a sting.
8 Letters
AFFLICTS: To cause pain or suffering to someone or something, which is the direct result of a sting.
More About "stings crossword clue"
The clue "stings" is a classic example of a crossword clue that can have multiple interpretations, ranging from the literal to the figurative. On one hand, it immediately brings to mind insects like bees or wasps, leading to answers such as BEE. On the other hand, it can refer to the sensation of pain or harm, providing options like HURTS or WOUNDS. Crossword setters love these types of clues because they allow for a broader range of answers, depending on the context of the puzzle.
Understanding the nuance of "stings" is key to solving it. Is the puzzle looking for the agent of the sting, the action itself, or the resulting sensation? Paying attention to the letter count and intersecting letters will narrow down the possibilities significantly. This duality makes "stings" a versatile and often recurring clue in various crossword puzzles, from daily quick crosswords to more complex cryptic ones.
Beyond the physical aspect, "stings" can also imply emotional pain or a harsh impact, such as a sharp remark that 'stings' someone's pride. While less common for direct answers, this metaphorical usage influences the broader range of related terms setters might use to clue similar concepts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about both the literal and figurative meanings of a clue like "stings." It could be an insect, a sensation, or even an emotional blow.
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "stings," a 3-letter answer immediately points towards "BEE," while a longer answer opens up possibilities like "HURTS" or "POISONS."
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are invaluable for confirming or eliminating potential answers. If you have an 'U' in the second spot for a 5-letter word, 'HURTS' becomes a strong candidate.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: For action verbs like "stings," consider synonyms for the action itself (e.g., bites, wounds) or its effects (e.g., pain, hurt).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'stings' typically refer to in crosswords?
'Stings' in crosswords can refer to the literal act of an insect (like a bee or wasp) delivering venom, the painful sensation caused by such an act, or even the emotional pain or negative impact something has on a person, as in 'a comment that stings'.
How can I identify a 'stings' answer when the clue is vague?
When the clue for 'stings' is vague, consider the number of letters. Common short answers include 'BEE' or 'HURTS'. Also, look at surrounding letters in the grid; these often provide critical hints. Think about both the literal and figurative meanings of the word.
Are there common synonyms for 'stings' used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms for 'stings' used in crosswords include 'BITES', 'HURTS', 'WOUNDS', 'AFFLICTS', 'PIERCES', 'NAGS' (for emotional pain), or even 'BEE' if referring to the source of a sting.