How can I tell if 'grate' refers to a sound or an action?

To distinguish, look at the clue's context. If it's about sound, the clue might include words like 'harsh sound,' 'rasping,' 'scraping noise,' or describe a voice. If it's an action, clues often relate to food preparation ('shred cheese'), friction ('rub roughly'), or an emotional state ('bother'). The number of letters in the answer also often helps narrow it down.

Are there common synonyms for 'grate' that appear in crosswords?

Yes, common synonyms used for 'grate' in crosswords include ANNOY, IRRITATE, ABRADE, CHAFE, and RASPY. Depending on the nuance, sometimes FRET or SCRAPE can also be relevant answers. Always consider all potential meanings—the physical action, the object, and the emotional impact—to find the best fit.

g r a t e crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: What does 'grate' mean in a crossword puzzle?

In crosswords, 'grate' is a versatile clue. It can refer to the act of shredding food (like cheese), a metal framework of bars (such as a fire grate or sewer grate), or to annoy or irritate someone. The exact meaning depends heavily on the surrounding letters and the overall theme of the puzzle.

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "g r a t e crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, sorted by length, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.

Solutions for "g r a t e crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

FRET: To be constantly and visibly worried or agitated; can also mean to rub or wear away, subtly relating to 'grate'.

5 Letters

GRATE: The most direct answer, referring to shredding food, a metal framework, or to annoy someone.

ANNOY: To irritate or bother, a common interpretation of 'grate' when referring to a person or situation.

CHAFE: To make sore by rubbing; to feel annoyance or impatience, similar to the irritation from a 'grating' sensation.

RASPY: Describes a harsh, rough sound, often associated with a voice that sounds 'grating'.

HARSH: Severely critical or unkind; unpleasantly rough or jarring to the senses, like a grating sound.

6 Letters

ABRADE: To wear away by rubbing or scraping, an action similar to physical grating.

SCRAPE: To rub or cause to rub (something) against a rough or abrasive surface, often producing a harsh or 'grating' sound.

8 Letters

IRRITATE: To make someone annoyed, impatient, or angry; to cause discomfort or annoyance, a strong synonym for 'grate' when referring to emotional impact.

More About "g r a t e crossword clue"

The clue "grate" in crossword puzzles is a classic example of a word with multiple meanings, making it a favorite for constructors to employ and a challenge for solvers. Its common definitions include shredding food (e.g., "Grate cheese for pizza"), a metal framework (e.g., "Fireplace grate"), and to annoy or irritate someone (e.g., "His constant complaining began to grate on her nerves"). This versatility means that context is absolutely key when encountering this clue.

Depending on the surrounding words in the clue or the letters already filled in your grid, "grate" could lead you to answers like GRATE itself, or synonyms such as ANNOY, IRRITATE, or CHAFE for the emotional sense. If the clue hints at a rough sound, RASPY or HARSH might be the solution. For physical actions, ABRADE or SCRAPE could be contenders. Always consider the number of letters required and how the answer fits semantically into the puzzle.

Crossword solvers often find multi-meaning words like "grate" both frustrating and rewarding. Mastering these types of clues involves not just knowing definitions but also understanding common crossword tropes and lateral thinking. By exploring all possible meanings and their synonyms, you significantly increase your chances of cracking even the trickiest puzzles.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider all meanings: For words like "grate," always list out all possible definitions (verb, noun, different senses of annoyance, etc.) before committing to an answer.
Check letter count: The number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. It immediately rules out many possibilities and narrows down your choices significantly.
Look for synonyms: Think of common synonyms for each meaning of the clue. Crossword setters often use less common synonyms to increase difficulty.
Cross-reference with intersecting words: Use letters from intersecting words to confirm or deny potential answers. This is fundamental to crossword solving.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'grate' mean in a crossword puzzle?

In crosswords, 'grate' can refer to several meanings: to shred food (like cheese), a framework of bars (like a fireplace grate), or to annoy or irritate someone. The context of surrounding letters and other clues usually indicates which meaning is intended.

How can I tell if 'grate' means a sound or an action?

Look for clues related to sound (e.g., 'harsh sound,' 'rasping noise') if it's about a 'grating' sound. If it's an action, clues might involve food preparation ('shred cheddar'), friction ('wear away'), or emotion ('irritate'). The number of letters can also guide you towards the specific answer.

Are there common synonyms for 'grate' in crosswords?

Yes, common synonyms include ANNOY, IRRITATE, ABRADE, CHAFE, RASPY, and sometimes FRET or SCRAPE, depending on the specific nuance of the clue. It's always helpful to consider all possible meanings of 'grate' when encountering it in a puzzle.