weakness or infirmity crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all the potential solutions for the crossword clue "weakness or infirmity". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just double-checking your answer, we've got you covered with detailed explanations for each possibility.
Solutions for "weakness or infirmity crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FOIBLE: A minor weakness or eccentricity in someone's character.
DEFECT: A shortcoming, imperfection, or lack of something necessary, often implying a flaw in construction or character.
7 Letters
AILMENT: An illness, typically a minor one, representing a form of physical infirmity.
FRAILTY: The condition of being weak and delicate, often implying a physical or moral vulnerability.
8 Letters
DEBILITY: Physical weakness, especially as a result of illness or age.
10 Letters
IMPAIRMENT: The state of being diminished, weakened, or damaged, often affecting a function or ability.
More About "weakness or infirmity crossword clue"
The clue "weakness or infirmity" is a classic example of a crossword clue that asks for a synonym or a related concept. Crossword puzzles often test your vocabulary by looking for words that fit within a specific semantic field. In this case, both "weakness" and "infirmity" point towards a state of being less than robust, whether physically, mentally, or even characteristically.
When encountering such a clue, it's helpful to consider the nuances. "Weakness" can be very broad, covering anything from a personal failing (a 'foible') to a structural flaw. "Infirmity," however, typically narrows the focus to physical or mental feebleness, often associated with age or illness. Paying attention to these subtle differences, combined with the number of letters required and any intersecting letters, will often lead you to the correct solution.
Common answers for this type of clue often describe a state of physical decline (like AILMENT, DEBILITY) or a less severe, almost charming, character flaw (like FOIBLE). The context of the surrounding clues in your puzzle can sometimes provide a hint as to which direction the setter intends.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "weakness or infirmity," distinguish between general weakness, physical infirmity, and even character flaws. This can help narrow down the potential answers significantly.
- Consider Word Lengths: Always check the number of letters required. This is the most crucial constraint in crosswords and immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve the clue in isolation. The letters you've already filled in from crossing words are invaluable clues themselves. They can confirm a suspicion or rule out an answer.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords frequently rely on your knowledge of synonyms and antonyms. If a direct synonym doesn't come to mind, think of related concepts or the opposite of the clue's meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the key difference between 'weakness' and 'infirmity' in crossword clues?
While both terms suggest a lack of strength, 'weakness' is a broader term that can apply to character, structure, or physical state. 'Infirmity' more specifically refers to a physical or mental feebleness, often associated with age or illness. Crossword setters might use 'infirmity' to hint at a more medical or age-related answer.
Are there common word lengths for answers to 'weakness or infirmity' clues?
Answers vary widely depending on the specific nuance, but common lengths for synonyms like FOIBLE, AILMENT, FRAILTY, and DEBILITY often fall in the 6-9 letter range. However, always be prepared for shorter or longer words if the clue implies a very specific type of weakness.
How can I distinguish between multiple possible answers for a 'weakness' clue?
The best strategy is to use crossing letters from other solved clues. Also, consider the specific phrasing of the clue; sometimes, a subtle word choice can guide you to a more precise synonym (e.g., 'moral weakness' versus 'physical infirmity'). If the puzzle has a theme, that might also offer clues.