bother crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "bother" in your crossword puzzle, 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 "bother crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VEX: To annoy or frustrate someone, often with minor irritations.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To irritate or disturb someone, causing slight anger or displeasure.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy someone with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
HASSLE: To bother, trouble, or inconvenience someone.
7 Letters
TROUBLE: To cause distress, difficulty, or inconvenience to someone.
8 Letters
IRRITATE: To make someone annoyed, impatient, or angry; to cause discomfort.
More About "bother crossword"
The clue "bother" is a classic in crosswords due to its semantic flexibility. It can refer to a state of being annoyed, the act of causing annoyance, or even a persistent problem. Crossword setters love words like "bother" because they can lead to a variety of synonyms across different lengths, making solvers think carefully about the exact nuance required by the puzzle's context.
When you encounter "bother" as a clue, consider the specific synonym that best fits the mood or intensity implied. Is it a slight irritation (VEX, ANNOY), a persistent nagging (PESTER), or a more significant inconvenience (TROUBLE)? The number of letters and any intersecting words will be your primary guides, but understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms can make all the difference.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuances of Synonymy: For clues like "bother," remember that synonyms aren't always perfect replacements. Think about the specific shade of meaning: is it mild annoyance, persistent nagging, or a significant issue? This can help differentiate between close answers.
- Always Check Letter Count First: Before diving deep into definitions, use the number of letters in the answer slot as your primary filter. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Leverage Intersecting Words: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is often the letters you get from perpendicular clues. Use these confirmed letters to fill in blanks and confirm your "bother" answer.
- Think Outside the Box (Occasionally): While most answers are straightforward synonyms, some setters might use a less common synonym or a more idiomatic phrase. If common answers don't fit, consider broadening your vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes 'bother' a common crossword clue?
The word 'bother' is a versatile clue in crosswords due to its wide range of synonyms. It can imply annoyance, trouble, inconvenience, or persistent disturbance, allowing setters many options for different word lengths and contexts.
How can I differentiate between similar answers like ANNOY and PESTER?
While both ANNOY and PESTER mean to bother, 'PESTER' often carries the nuance of repeated or persistent bothering, such as with requests. 'ANNOY' is a broader term for general irritation. Always check the required letter count first, as it's the most definitive clue.
Are there any less common synonyms for 'bother' in crosswords?
Yes, beyond the most common ones, setters might use less frequent synonyms like 'VEX' (to annoy or frustrate), 'IRK' (to irritate), or 'HASSLE' (to annoy or trouble). Being aware of these can help when more obvious answers don't fit.