crossword clue bother – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "bother," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, sorted by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "crossword clue bother" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRK: To annoy or irritate someone.
VEX: To make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To bother or irritate someone.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy someone with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
7 Letters
TROUBLE: To cause distress or problems for someone.
DISTURB: To interrupt the peace, quiet, or order of something.
More About "crossword clue bother"
The clue "bother" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to a range of answers depending on the specific nuance intended by the puzzle setter. It can imply a mild irritation, a persistent annoyance, or even a more significant disruption. Understanding these subtle differences is key to selecting the correct answer among several possibilities.
When you encounter "bother" in a crossword, consider the number of letters provided. Short answers like IRK or VEX are common for quick, sharp irritations, while longer words like PESTER or DISTURB suggest a more prolonged or impactful annoyance. Always think about synonyms in different contexts – is it bothering a person, a process, or a state of being?
Crossword constructors love to use words with multiple meanings, and "bother" is no exception. It can refer to the act of annoying someone, or it can be a noun referring to the trouble itself. Paying attention to whether the clue implies a verb or a noun can significantly narrow down your options and help you find the precise solution for your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Part of Speech: Is "bother" used as a verb (to annoy) or a noun (a nuisance)? This distinction can eliminate many incorrect answers right away.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, an intersecting word can give you a crucial letter or hint at the theme, helping confirm an answer for "bother."
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorming words that mean the same or opposite can often spark the correct answer, especially for common clues like this one.
- Check for Homophones or Puns: While "bother" itself isn't commonly a pun, always be on the lookout for clever wordplay in other clues that might influence a tricky puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bother' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'bother' typically refers to synonyms for annoying, troubling, irritating, or disturbing someone or something. It often points to verbs or nouns describing an inconvenience or mild harassment.
How many letters are common for 'bother' solutions?
Solutions for 'bother' can vary widely in length, from short 3-letter words like IRK or VEX, to longer words such as ANNOY (5 letters), PESTER (6 letters), or even TROUBLE (7 letters) and DISTURB (7 letters). The length specified by the puzzle is key.
What are some common synonyms for 'bother' in crosswords?
Besides the direct synonyms, 'bother' can clue words like CHAFE, NAG, GALL, or even words describing a minor inconvenience or nuisance, depending on the crossword's theme and difficulty. Always consider the nuance of the clue.