find fault crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "find fault crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, along with explanations to help you understand the nuances of this common clue.
Solutions for "find fault crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CARP: To find fault or complain continually, especially about trivial matters.
PICK: To find fault with or criticize someone, often in a harsh or petty way.
5 Letters
CAVIL: To make trivial or unnecessary objections, often implying nitpicking.
BLAME: To assign responsibility for a fault or wrongdoing, often implying disapproval.
7 Letters
REPROVE: To scold or criticize (someone) for a fault or wrongdoing, often gently or with good intent.
NITPICK: To be overly concerned with small, insignificant details or errors, often to find fault.
9 Letters
CRITICIZE: To indicate the faults of (someone or something) in a disapproving way.
More About "find fault crossword clue"
The clue "find fault" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of synonyms. At its core, the phrase refers to the act of pointing out imperfections, complaining, or assigning blame. This can range from minor quibbles to serious accusations, which is why a variety of answers of different lengths can fit this clue.
Crossword setters love to use words like CARP, CAVIL, and CRITICIZE because they directly relate to the act of finding fault but carry slightly different connotations regarding intensity and specificity. Understanding these subtle differences can be key to selecting the correct answer when faced with limited crossing letters. Always consider the tone and potential nuance a word might imply.
Moreover, "find fault" can sometimes lead to more indirect answers that imply the action, such as BLAME or REPROVE. The exact word you need will almost always depend on the number of letters required and the context provided by any already-filled intersecting words in your puzzle. Paying close attention to these details will significantly increase your success rate.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms Broadly: When you see a clue like "find fault," don't just stick to the most obvious synonyms. Consider words that imply the action, even if they aren't direct dictionary replacements (e.g., 'BLAME' implies finding fault).
- Match Letter Count First: Always let the given letter count guide your initial thoughts. If you have a 4-letter space, you know 'CRITICIZE' isn't the answer, but 'CARP' might be.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The letters from other solved clues are your best friends. They eliminate possibilities quickly and often confirm the correct answer, especially for clues with multiple potential solutions like "find fault."
- Consider Parts of Speech: Ensure your answer matches the clue's part of speech. "Find fault" is a verb phrase, so your answer will typically be a verb (e.g., CARP, CRITICIZE) or a noun that can also function as a verb.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "find fault" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "find fault" typically refers to the act of criticizing, complaining, or identifying imperfections. It often hints at synonyms such as CARP, CAVIL, BLAME, or CRITICIZE, requiring you to match the given letter count.
Are there common synonyms for "find fault" often used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include CARP, CAVIL, CRITICIZE, BLAME, REPROVE, and PICK ON. Less frequent but still possible options might be QUIBBLE or NIBBLE, depending on the puzzle's complexity.
How do I determine the correct answer length for "find fault" when solving?
The primary method is to look at the number in parentheses next to the clue, which specifies the exact letter count (e.g., "find fault (4)" for CARP). Additionally, intersecting letters from already solved clues will help narrow down the possibilities and confirm your choice.