trouble or bother crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "trouble or bother" clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "trouble or bother crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VEX: To make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
4 Letters
PEST: A persistent source of annoyance or trouble.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To irritate or bother (someone) in a minor way.
WORRY: To give way to anxiety or unease; allow one's mind to dwell on difficulty or troubles.
6 Letters
BOTHER: To cause trouble or inconvenience to.
PLAGUE: To cause continual trouble or distress to.
HARASS: To subject to aggressive pressure or intimidation.
7 Letters
DISTURB: To interrupt the peaceful, tranquil, or settled state or condition of.
More About "trouble or bother crossword clue"
The clue "trouble or bother" is a classic example of a crossword clue that relies on synonyms and slight nuances in meaning. Both 'trouble' and 'bother' suggest a state of annoyance, difficulty, or disturbance, but the specific word chosen by the constructor will depend on the exact shade of meaning required, the context of the surrounding letters, and the overall theme of the puzzle. Understanding these subtleties is key to unlocking the correct answer.
Often, answers to this clue can range from mild irritations like 'VEX' or 'ANNOY' to more significant disturbances like 'DISTURB' or 'PLAGUE'. Crossword puzzles are designed to test your vocabulary breadth, encouraging you to think beyond the most obvious answer and consider less common, yet equally valid, synonyms. Always consider if the answer should be a verb (e.g., to vex), a noun (e.g., a pest), or even an adjective, based on the clue's implied part of speech.
When you encounter this clue, it's beneficial to first look at the number of letters provided. This significantly narrows down the possibilities. Then, if you have any intersecting letters filled in, use those to further refine your choices. Sometimes, the clue might be part of a larger theme where 'trouble' or 'bother' relates to a specific category, such as emotions, actions, or even specific types of nuisances.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always prioritize the number of letters indicated for the answer. This is the single most helpful constraint in crosswords.
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: For clues like "trouble or bother," think of every possible synonym, from common to more obscure. Don't limit yourself to just one definition.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from intersecting words are invaluable. They confirm or deny your potential answers and often lead you directly to the solution.
- Think About Word Context: Is the clue asking for a verb, a noun, or an adjective? Does it imply a mild annoyance or a serious issue? This can help differentiate between similar-length synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do crosswords use 'trouble or bother' as a clue?
Crossword constructors often use phrases like 'trouble or bother' to allow for multiple synonymous answers of varying lengths. It tests a solver's vocabulary for words that convey annoyance, inconvenience, or distress, such as VEX, PEST, ANNOY, or DISTURB.
How can I distinguish between 'trouble' and 'bother' in a crossword clue?
While often used interchangeably, 'trouble' can imply more serious difficulties, whereas 'bother' suggests a minor annoyance or inconvenience. In crosswords, the specific context of surrounding letters and the required length of the answer will guide you to the correct synonym. For instance, 'vex' leans towards bothering, while 'plague' can imply deeper trouble.
Are there common trap answers for clues like 'trouble or bother'?
Yes, common traps include words that are close but not quite perfect synonyms, or words that fit a similar theme but not the precise nuance. Always double-check the exact meaning and common usage of a word, and consider if it's a verb, noun, or adjective as required by the puzzle. The number of letters is your primary guide.