dismay crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "dismay" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, complete with explanations and categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "dismay crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ALARM: A sudden feeling of fear or apprehension.
SHOCK: A sudden and disturbing feeling caused by an unpleasant event.
6 Letters
APPALL: To greatly dismay or horrify.
HORROR: An intense feeling of fear, shock, or disgust.
7 Letters
SADNESS: The condition or quality of being sad; sorrow.
13 Letters
CONSTERNATION: Feelings of anxiety or dismay, typically at something unexpected.
More About "dismay crossword clue"
The clue "dismay" in a crossword puzzle typically refers to a strong feeling of disappointment, apprehension, or a sense of sudden shock. It's an emotion that can range from mild disappointment to profound distress, which is why various synonyms can fit the clue depending on the specific context and the available letters in the grid.
When encountering "dismay" in your puzzle, consider if the clue is looking for a noun (the feeling itself) or a verb (the act of causing dismay). For instance, 'ALARM' or 'SHOCK' might be suitable if the clue suggests a sudden, startling event, while 'SADNESS' or 'CONSTERNATION' could fit if the context points to a deeper, more prolonged state of distress.
Crossword setters often use such emotional clues to test a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to discern subtle semantic differences. Always cross-reference with intersecting words to confirm your answer, as 'dismay' has many close synonyms that might trick an unwary solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always look at the surrounding letters already filled in your puzzle. These provide invaluable clues about the length and specific letters of the answer, helping you narrow down the possibilities for "dismay."
- Synonym Spectrum: "Dismay" has a range of synonyms. Think about the intensity of the emotion being implied. Is it a mild concern or a strong, sudden shock? This can guide you to the most accurate answer.
- Part of Speech: Determine if "dismay" is used as a noun (the feeling) or a verb (to cause the feeling) within the original clue. This distinction is vital for choosing the correct form of the answer.
- Common Prefixes/Suffixes: For emotional words, consider common prefixes or suffixes that might be part of longer answers, such as 'con-' for CONSTERNATION, or '-ness' for SADNESS.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "dismay" typically mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, 'dismay' usually refers to a strong feeling of disappointment, shock, or apprehension. Common synonyms include 'alarm,' 'shock,' or 'appall.'
Are there common word lengths for "dismay" synonyms?
Yes, many common answers for 'dismay' are typically 5 to 7 letters long, such as ALARM, SHOCK, or SADNESS. However, longer answers like CONSTERNATION can also appear depending on the puzzle's complexity.
How can I differentiate between similar emotional clues in crosswords?
To differentiate, pay close attention to the specific nuance of the clue (e.g., is it sudden? lasting?). Also, the number of letters in the answer and already-filled intersecting letters are crucial for narrowing down possibilities. Consider if the clue implies a noun (the feeling) or a verb (to cause the feeling).