harass crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "harass crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "harass crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VEX: To annoy or irritate someone, often in a more subtle or formal way.
IRK: To irritate, annoy, or exasperate someone.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To cause slight irritation or displeasure to someone, often by minor disturbances.
TEASE: To make fun of or provoke someone in a playful or unkind way.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy someone with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
BADGER: To repeatedly ask (someone) for something or to do something; to pester.
BOTHER: To cause trouble or difficulty to; to annoy.
7 Letters
TORMENT: To inflict severe mental or physical suffering on, implying a prolonged or intense form of harassment.
TROUBLE: To cause distress or problems to.
More About "harass crossword clue"
The clue "harass" is a common one in crosswords and can lead to a variety of answers, reflecting its broad range of synonyms. From mild irritants to intense suffering, the word encompasses many forms of unwelcome interaction. When tackling this clue, it's crucial to consider the nuance implied by the puzzle's difficulty level and the context provided by intersecting words.
Often, answers for 'harass' will be verbs that describe repetitive or bothersome actions. Think about words that convey persistence in annoyance, such as 'pester' or 'badger.' However, sometimes the clue might lean towards more severe forms, leading to words like 'torment' or 'molest.' The precise meaning often comes down to the number of letters and how well the potential answer fits the overall grid.
Keep an eye out for clues that might hint at a specific type of harassment, such as a verbal assault (e.g., 'hector') or a playful, yet annoying, interaction (e.g., 'tease'). The best strategy is to list all possible synonyms for 'harass' that fit the given letter count and then test them against the known letters from other clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of letters required for the answer. This is the single most important filter for narrowing down possibilities.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "harass," think of all possible words that mean the same thing, or even their opposites if the clue is phrased negatively.
- Look for Common Crossword Patterns: Certain words appear frequently in crosswords. If a short answer is needed for "harass," consider common three or four-letter words like VEX or IRK.
- Utilize Cross-References: Don't try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to guide your choices and confirm your answers.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love to use synonyms that aren't immediately apparent or to clue words in a less common usage. Be open to less obvious interpretations of 'harass.'
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'harass' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'harass' clues typically point to synonyms for annoyance, bother, persecution, or persistent trouble. Answers can range from mild irritation to severe torment, depending on the letter count and other cross-references.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'harass' like 'annoy' vs. 'pester'?
The distinction often lies in the intensity or frequency. 'Annoy' can be a one-off minor irritation, while 'pester' implies a persistent, repetitive action. 'Torment' suggests severe suffering. Always check the number of letters and how well the word fits with intersecting clues.
Are there any common crossword tricks related to the clue 'harass'?
Crossword setters might use 'harass' to lead you to words related to animal behavior (e.g., 'badger,' 'hound'), or to words that are homophones or have double meanings. Always consider both the literal and figurative senses, and look out for verbs that imply continuous action.