give the cold shoulder to crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue 'give the cold shoulder to crossword clue' and need a little nudge, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with their definitions and letter counts, designed to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "give the cold shoulder to crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SNUB: To ignore or reject someone disdainfully.
SHUN: To persistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone.
5 Letters
AVOID: To keep away from or refrain from interacting with someone.
6 Letters
IGNORE: To refuse to take notice of or acknowledge someone.
REBUFF: To reject someone or something in an abrupt or ungracious manner.
9 Letters
OSTRACIZE: To exclude someone from a society or group.
More About "give the cold shoulder to crossword clue"
The idiom "give the cold shoulder to" is a widely recognized phrase meaning to intentionally act unfriendly or ignore someone, often as a sign of displeasure or disinterest. Its origin is somewhat debated, but one popular theory suggests it comes from literally offering an unwelcome guest a cold piece of meat (like a shoulder of mutton) instead of a warm, hospitable meal, signifying a lack of warmth or welcome.
In the context of crosswords, this clue asks for a verb that describes this act of intentional social distance. Therefore, common answers are direct synonyms for ignoring, rejecting, or actively avoiding. The exact answer will depend on the number of letters required and the surrounding context provided by other completed words in the puzzle.
Understanding the nuances of such idioms is key to solving many crossword puzzles, as setters often use figurative language to lead solvers to specific literal or synonymous answers. Always think about the core action implied by the idiom.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always consider the puzzle's theme or other completed words. A word like 'SNUB' might fit a social context, while 'REBUFF' could imply a more formal rejection in a different context.
- Check Letter Count: This is often the most critical hint. If you have '_ _ U B' as part of the solution, 'SNUB' is a strong candidate for a 4-letter word. Always verify the letter count before committing.
- Look for Synonyms: Clues, especially those based on idioms, often lead to direct synonyms. Think of different ways to say 'ignore' or 'reject' to find your answer.
- Consider Figurative Language: 'Cold shoulder' is an idiom. Crossword setters love to use idioms, puns, and wordplay. Be ready to think beyond literal meanings and consider the implied action or emotion.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'give the cold shoulder to' mean in common language?
It means to intentionally ignore someone or treat them in an unfriendly manner, often as a sign of disapproval or disinterest.
Are there other phrases with similar meanings often used in crosswords?
Yes, clues might use phrases like 'turn a deaf ear to', 'brush off', 'cut dead', or 'send packing' to hint at similar actions of ignoring or rejecting.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'SNUB' and 'SHUN'?
Often, the nuance depends on the specific setter's style or other crossing letters. 'SNUB' implies a direct, often public, slight, while 'SHUN' suggests a more continuous avoidance. In crosswords, either could be valid for the same clue if letter count permits.