gasp crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "gasp" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's solve it together!
Solutions for "gasp crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AHH: An exclamation often associated with a sudden intake of breath, signifying surprise or relief.
4 Letters
PANT: To breathe rapidly and with difficulty, typically after exertion or from excitement.
PUFF: To breathe in short, quick breaths, often due to physical exertion or a sudden shock.
5 Letters
CHOKE: To have severe difficulty in breathing because of an obstruction or constriction in the throat.
6 Letters
WHEEZE: To breathe with a whistling or rattling sound in the chest, characteristic of asthma or other respiratory issues.
More About "gasp crossword clue"
"Gasp" as a crossword clue is a versatile term that can refer to various forms of breathing or exclamations. It often relates to a sudden, involuntary intake of breath, which can be triggered by surprise, fear, shock, physical exertion, or even relief. Crossword setters love such clues because they allow for multiple interpretations and answer lengths, forcing solvers to consider the nuances of the word.
Common themes for "gasp" clues include physiological responses (like breathing heavily after a run), emotional reactions (like an audible gasp of astonishment), or even sounds associated with breathing difficulties. Understanding the context of the puzzle, such as whether the clue implies a noun (the act of gasping) or a verb (to gasp), can greatly assist in narrowing down the possibilities.
When you encounter "gasp" in a puzzle, think about what might cause someone to gasp. Is it a sudden sight, an intense effort, or perhaps an unexpected revelation? By considering these scenarios, you can often unlock the precise word the clue is looking for, whether it's a short, sharp exclamation or a longer description of labored breathing.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters provided is your most powerful hint. If "gasp" is a 4-letter word, you can immediately rule out longer or shorter possibilities.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, the letters from intersecting words will give you enough context to deduce the correct answer for "gasp." Don't solve clues in isolation.
- Consider Synonyms and Homonyms: Think broadly about words that mean similar things to "gasp" or sound like it. "Pant" or "puff" are direct synonyms related to breathing, while "ahh" or "ohh" might be reactions.
- Look for Indicator Words: Words like "perhaps," "possibly," or "briefly" in the clue can hint at a less direct or shorter answer. Conversely, "heavily" or "struggles" might point to more descriptive terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'gasp' usually imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'gasp' often points to words related to sudden or labored breathing, exclamations of surprise, shock, relief, or physical exertion. Common answers include synonyms for breathing difficulties or expressive sounds.
Are there different types of 'gasp' clues?
Yes, 'gasp' can be used literally for breathing (e.g., 'breathe heavily'), metaphorically for strong reaction (e.g., 'expression of shock'), or even as part of an idiom. Context and surrounding letters are key to determining the exact meaning.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like PANT and PUFF?
While PANT and PUFF both describe quick breathing, PANT often implies more sustained, heavy breathing, typically from exertion. PUFF can refer to shorter, more abrupt breaths, or also the sound made. The number of letters and other crossing words will clarify which answer is correct.