crossword clue annoy – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below you'll find comprehensive answers for the clue "annoy," categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue annoy" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRK: To irritate or bother someone slightly.
VEX: To make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters.
5 Letters
GRATE: To have an irritating or unpleasant effect on someone, often referring to sounds or actions.
CHAFE: To feel irritation, discontent, or impatience, often due to restriction or rubbing.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy (someone) with frequent interruptions or requests.
BOTHER: To cause trouble or annoyance to; disturb.
NETTLE: To irritate or annoy (someone).
PLAGUE: To cause continual trouble or distress to (someone or something).
8 Letters
IRRITATE: To make (someone) feel annoyed, impatient, or angry.
More About "crossword clue annoy"
The clue "annoy" is a perennial favorite in crossword puzzles, often appearing in various forms to challenge solvers. It's a versatile word that can represent anything from a slight irritation to a persistent bother, leading to a wide range of possible answers depending on the context and the required letter count.
Understanding the nuances of synonyms for "annoy" is key to mastering this clue. For instance, "irk" suggests a minor annoyance, while "pester" implies repeated, nagging actions. "Vex" often carries a connotation of perplexity or frustration in addition to annoyance. Recognizing these subtle differences can help you discern the correct answer when several options of the same length are available.
Crossword constructors love this clue because it allows them to test a solver's vocabulary depth across different levels of intensity for the emotion of annoyance. Paying attention to the exact wording of the clue – e.g., "Slightly annoy" vs. "Greatly annoy" – can sometimes narrow down the choices significantly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always confirm the number of letters in the grid before committing to an answer. This is the single most important step for clues like "annoy" which have many synonyms.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Use letters from already-solved intersecting words. This is often the quickest way to eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the right one, especially when multiple words fit the meaning and letter count.
- Consider the Tone: Some crossword puzzles or clues have a specific tone (e.g., formal, informal, humorous). An informal clue like "Bug" might point to a less formal answer like "PESTER," while a more formal clue might suggest "IRRITATE."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best answer for 'annoy' when multiple options fit?
The best answer depends on the number of letters required for the specific crossword grid. Additionally, consider any intersecting letters you've already filled in. The most common short answers include IRK and VEX, while longer ones often include PESTER or IRRITATE.
Are there synonyms for 'annoy' that are often used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include bother, irk, vex, pester, nettle, grate, badger, bug, irate, and rile. Crossword setters often use these to provide variety in clues that point to a similar meaning.
What type of clue usually leads to 'annoy' or its synonyms?
Clues for 'annoy' typically relate to causing irritation, disturbance, or minor frustration. Examples include 'Bother', 'Irk', 'Get on one's nerves', 'Pester persistently', or 'Vex'.