crossword clue disparage – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "disparage" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions by letter count, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid swiftly and accurately.
Solutions for "crossword clue disparage" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DECRY: To publicly denounce or criticize, often used when someone expresses strong disapproval or condemnation. This word focuses on strong, open disapproval.
SNEER: To mock or scoff at someone or something in a contemptuous way, often implying a disdainful facial expression. This implies a more subtle, often non-verbal, form of disparagement.
6 Letters
SLIGHT: To insult (someone) by treating them with disrespect, or to treat as unimportant. This focuses on a lack of consideration or perceived value.
8 Letters
BELITTLE: To make someone or something seem unimportant or trivial, often by speaking in a dismissive way. This is a direct synonym for disparage, emphasizing the act of reducing value.
9 Letters
DENIGRATE: To criticize unfairly; disparage, often by damaging someone's reputation. This term specifically points to damaging the character or reputation of something or someone.
More About "crossword clue disparage"
"Disparage" is a verb meaning to regard or represent as being of little worth. In crosswords, clues for "disparage" often look for synonyms that convey a sense of putting someone or something down, making them seem less important, or speaking ill of them. The solutions provided above capture various nuances of this action, from open condemnation (DECRY) to subtle expressions of contempt (SNEER), or actively damaging a reputation (DENIGRATE).
Understanding the context of the puzzle is key when choosing between multiple answers. For instance, if the clue implies a verbal attack, words like DECRY or DENIGRATE might be more appropriate. If it's about making something seem insignificant, BELITTLE or SLIGHT would fit better. Crossword setters love to play on these subtle differences, so paying attention to the full phrasing of the clue is essential.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Does the clue for "disparage" imply a strong, formal condemnation, or a more casual, dismissive attitude? This can help you narrow down synonyms.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Even if you're stuck on "disparage," fill in any intersecting words first. The letters you uncover will often provide critical hints for the remaining word.
- Consider Word Families: Think about words related to "criticism," "insult," or "diminish." Sometimes a different form of a word (e.g., noun vs. verb) can spark the correct answer.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Words like 'dis-', 'de-', 'un-' often signal a negative connotation, which aligns well with the meaning of 'disparage'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'disparage' mean in a crossword context?
'Disparage' in a crossword context typically means to describe someone or something as unimportant, bad, or worthless. It often calls for synonyms like BELITTLE, DECRY, or SLIGHT, depending on the number of letters required.
How can I find answers to crossword clues about 'criticism' or 'negative remarks'?
When encountering clues related to criticism, think about the nuance: is it a mild criticism (NAG), a harsh one (BERATE), or making something seem less important (DISPARAGE)? Consider the letter count, common prefixes/suffixes for such words, and look for synonyms that fit the specific tone implied by the clue.
Are there common crossword traps for 'disparage'?
One common trap is confusing 'disparage' with words that mean 'to discourage' (DETER) or 'to disprove' (REFUTE). Another is mistaking it for terms implying physical damage rather than reputation or value. Focus on words that mean 'to speak ill of' or 'undermine reputation/value' when solving for 'disparage'.