bother nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "bother" from your New York Times crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "bother nyt crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRK: To annoy or irritate someone, often in a minor way.
VEX: To make someone feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, especially with trivial matters.
NAG: To persistently bother or complain to someone.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To cause irritation or bother to (someone).
UPSET: To make someone feel unhappy, disappointed, or worried.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy (someone) with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
PLAGUE: To cause continual trouble or distress to.
HARASS: To subject to aggressive pressure or intimidation.
7 Letters
TROUBLE: To cause distress or problems for someone; to make an effort or take pains.
DISTURB: To interrupt the sleep, relaxation, or privacy of (someone).
More About "bother nyt crossword"
"Bother" is a remarkably versatile word in crosswords, and the New York Times puzzle setters love to play on its various nuances. It can refer to a slight irritation, a persistent annoyance, or even a significant source of trouble. Recognizing the specific context of the clue is key to finding the correct answer, whether it's a short, sharp "IRK" or a more drawn-out "PESTER."
The NYT often uses "bother" in clues that point to synonyms of annoyance or disturbance. For instance, a clue might be phrased as "Cause trouble for" to lead you to TROUBLE, or "Annoy persistently" for PESTER. Pay close attention to any adverbs or adjectives in the clue, as they often narrow down the possible answers considerably. The length of the answer space is, of course, your primary guide.
Sometimes, "bother" can also refer to the act of making an effort, as in "don't bother to clean up." In such cases, answers like "CARE" or "EXERT" might be relevant, though these are less common for direct synonyms of "bother" as an action causing irritation. Always consider both the direct and indirect meanings when stumped.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: "Bother" can range from mild irritation to significant distress. Is the clue implying a slight annoyance (e.g., IRK, VEX) or a more intense, persistent one (e.g., PESTER, PLAGUE)?
- Consider Word Lengths First: Always match the possible answers to the number of blank spaces you have. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many options and focus on a few.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often use synonyms. Think of all the words that mean "bother" and keep them in mind. Sometimes, the clue might be a clever twist or an antonym, so consider the opposite meanings as well.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters filled in around the "bother" clue, use them as anchors. This can instantly confirm or deny a potential answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many letters are in typical 'bother' crossword answers?
Answers for 'bother' can vary widely, but commonly range from 3-letter words like IRK or VEX to longer ones like PESTER (6 letters) or TROUBLE (7 letters), depending on the specific nuance and available space in the puzzle.
What are common synonyms for 'bother' in crosswords?
Common crossword synonyms for 'bother' include ANNOY, IRK, VEX, PESTER, PLAGUE, NAG, and sometimes words like UPSET or DISTURB, depending on the context of the clue.
How do NYT crossword clues for 'bother' often appear?
NYT crossword clues for 'bother' often use synonyms or phrases like 'Cause trouble for', 'Irritate', 'Annoy greatly', or 'Give trouble to'. The specific wording will hint at the exact synonym needed.