irritate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "irritate" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Find the perfect fit for your grid below!
Solutions for "irritate crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRK: To annoy or vex, often mildly.
VEX: To annoy, frustrate, or worry someone, especially about trivial matters.
4 Letters
RILE: To make someone annoyed or irritated, often by provoking them.
GALL: To annoy or exasperate, or to chafe or wear away by rubbing.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To bother or disturb, causing slight irritation.
PEEVE: To annoy or make someone angry, often in a persistent way.
GRATE: To annoy or irritate someone, often by making a harsh sound or by rubbing.
CHAFE: To make sore by rubbing; or to annoy or fret.
6 Letters
NETTLE: To irritate or annoy (someone), especially by causing a slight sting or prick, like the plant.
BOTHER: To cause trouble or annoyance to; to disturb.
More About "irritate crossword clue"
"Irritate" is a versatile word in crosswords, often appearing in various forms and contexts. Clues related to "irritate" can range from mild annoyance to physical discomfort, testing your vocabulary of synonyms. Common answers often include short, punchy words like IRK or VEX, which are staple crossword terms for their broad applicability and convenient letter count.
Beyond simple synonyms, clues might hint at the *method* of irritation (e.g., "chafe" for rubbing, "grate" for sound) or the *degree* of irritation (e.g., "nettle" implying a sharper, more specific sting). Always consider the context provided by the clue and the number of letters required, as this can narrow down the possibilities significantly. Think about both direct synonyms and actions that result in irritation.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: "Irritate" has many synonyms, but each carries a slightly different nuance. Is the clue implying physical irritation, emotional vexation, or a general nuisance? This can help you choose between words like CHAFE, ANNOY, or NETTLE.
- Look at Letter Count: The length of the word is your biggest hint. Short words like IRK (3 letters) and VEX (3 letters) are common, but don't overlook longer options like NETTLE (6 letters) if the grid demands it.
- Check for Related Clues: Sometimes a surrounding clue or a theme can give you a subtle hint about the specific type of "irritation" the puzzle constructor is looking for. Don't solve in a vacuum!
- Think Beyond the Obvious: If direct synonyms aren't fitting, consider actions that lead to irritation, such as "BUG" or "PESTER," which can also serve as answers depending on the clue's wording.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common short answers for 'irritate' in crosswords?
Common short answers for 'irritate' often include IRK (3 letters) and VEX (3 letters). These are popular due to their concise fit and direct synonymity.
How do I distinguish between similar 'irritate' synonyms like 'annoy' vs 'nettle'?
While both mean to bother, 'nettle' often implies a more pointed, sharp, or slightly stinging form of irritation, as if pricked by a nettle plant. 'Annoy' is a more general term for causing slight irritation or disturbance. Pay close attention to the full phrasing of the clue for subtle hints.
Are there any specific types of clues that lead to 'irritate' answers?
Clues for 'irritate' answers frequently involve situations that cause minor annoyance or discomfort. Examples include 'Bug,' 'Get under one's skin,' 'Cause a rash,' 'Pester,' 'Rub the wrong way,' or 'Vex.' Look for verbs implying a mild, ongoing disturbance or a bothersome action.