bitter crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "bitter" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct word for your puzzle.
Solutions for "bitter crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ACID: Sharp, sour taste.
TART: Sour or acidic taste, often sharp.
GRIM: Unpleasant or uninviting; harsh.
5 Letters
ACRID: Having an irritatingly strong and unpleasant taste or smell.
HARSH: Unpleasantly rough or jarring to the senses.
SHARP: Having a strong, pungent, or acrid taste.
7 Letters
CYNICAL: Believing that people are motivated by self-interest; distrustful of human sincerity.
8 Letters
PIERCING: Having a sharp, penetrating effect, especially on the senses.
9 Letters
RESENTFUL: Feeling or expressing bitterness or indignation at having been treated unfairly.
More About "bitter crossword clue"
The word "bitter" is a versatile clue in crosswords, often pointing to multiple interpretations. It can refer to a specific taste, as in the flavor of coffee, dark chocolate, or quinine. In this context, answers like ACID or TART are common. However, "bitter" also frequently describes an emotional state, such as resentment, anger, or disappointment. For this meaning, words like CYNICAL or RESENTFUL might be the solution.
Furthermore, "bitter" can describe something unpleasant or harsh, like a "bitter wind" or a "bitter pill to swallow." This broader sense opens up answers such as GRIM, HARSH, or SHARP. The key to solving such clues lies in examining the context of the puzzle, the number of letters required, and any intersecting words you might already have filled in. This multi-faceted nature makes "bitter" a challenging yet common crossword clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think beyond the most obvious definition. "Bitter" has sensory, emotional, and descriptive interpretations.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most valuable guide. If "bitter" leads to a 4-letter answer, you're likely looking for a taste (ACID, TART). If it's longer, it might be an emotion (CYNICAL, RESENTFUL).
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from solved intersecting clues are crucial. They can confirm or eliminate potential answers quickly.
- Think Synonyms: For clues like "bitter," brainstorm a list of synonyms for each possible meaning. This broadens your options and helps you find the fitting word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bitter' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'bitter' can refer to a range of meanings, from a sharp, unpleasant taste (like quinine or dark chocolate) to an emotional state of resentment or cynicism. It can also describe a harsh or severe situation, sound, or feeling.
Are there common synonyms for 'bitter' in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include 'ACID', 'TART', 'SOUR' (for taste), 'HARSH', 'GRIM', 'SHARP' (for quality or feeling), and 'CYNICAL', 'RESENTFUL', 'JADED' (for emotional states). The specific context of the clue and surrounding letters often guides which synonym is correct.
How can I tell if 'bitter' refers to taste or emotion?
Look for contextual clues. If the puzzle mentions food, drink, or a sensory experience, it likely refers to taste. If it relates to feelings, relationships, or attitudes, an emotional synonym is more probable. The length of the answer and intersecting letters are also crucial.