crossword clue severe – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a crossword clue for "severe", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions by letter count, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue severe" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GRIM: Suggesting a harsh, unyielding, or somber outlook.
DIRE: Indicating extreme seriousness or urgency, often with negative implications.
5 Letters
HARSH: Unpleasantly rigorous, strict, or critical.
STERN: Strict and uncompromising; having a forbidding appearance or manner.
ACUTE: (Of a bad situation or feeling) present or experienced to a severe or intense degree.
CRUEL: Causing pain or suffering to others or oneself; marked by cruelty.
GRAVE: (Of a situation or problem) very serious and important.
RIGID: Stiff and unbending; not able to be changed or adapted, often implying strictness.
6 Letters
STRICT: Demanding that rules concerning behavior are obeyed and observed precisely.
More About "crossword clue severe"
The word "severe" carries significant weight and can imply a range of meanings from strictness and harshness to intensity and seriousness. In crosswords, its versatility means it can refer to a person's demeanor (e.g., a severe teacher), a medical condition (e.g., severe pain), or a critical situation (e.g., a severe crisis). This broad applicability makes it a popular yet sometimes challenging clue for solvers.
Understanding the context provided by the rest of the clue, and especially by any intersecting letters, is crucial. For instance, if the clue hints at a strict judgment, "HARSH" or "STERN" might fit. If it's about an intense feeling, "ACUTE" could be the answer. Paying attention to these subtle distinctions will significantly improve your chances of finding the correct solution for "severe" in any puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the answer grid to narrow down your options immediately. Our list provides answers by length for convenience.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuance: "Severe" has many synonyms. Think about the precise shade of meaning the clue might be hinting at. Is it about a person, a condition, or a degree of intensity?
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't guess. If you have letters from other completed clues, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers. This is often the fastest way to verify a solution.
- Think About Wordplay: While "severe" is often straightforward, some clues use wordplay or cryptic elements. If a direct synonym doesn't fit, consider if the clue is hinting at something more complex.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell which synonym of "severe" is correct for my crossword?
The best way is to match the number of letters required by the grid and consider any intersecting letters from other clues. The specific nuance of the clue's phrasing might also hint at a particular synonym (e.g., 'severe penalty' points to a different answer than 'severe pain').
Are there different types of "severe" clues in crosswords?
Yes, "severe" can appear as a straightforward synonym clue, part of a pun, a cryptic wordplay clue, or even a foreign word if it's a themed puzzle. It's essential to consider all possibilities, including double meanings and less common interpretations.
What other words are related to "severe" that might appear in crosswords?
Beyond the direct synonyms listed, words like RIGOROUS, HARSHLY, INTENSELY, or phrases describing a difficult situation might be related. Keep an eye out for antonyms as well, as some clues use opposites or wordplay involving them.