ill temper crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "ill temper," categorized by word length, helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "ill temper crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRE: A strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
4 Letters
RAGE: Uncontrolled anger; a state of furious agitation.
BILE: Often used figuratively to describe ill temper, bitterness, or anger.
5 Letters
ANGER: A strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
6 Letters
CHOLER: Historically, a humor in the body associated with a choleric, irritable, or bad-tempered disposition.
SPLEEN: Historically, a bodily organ once believed to be the seat of melancholy, bad temper, or malice.
More About "ill temper crossword clue"
"Ill temper" is a classic crossword clue that often points to words describing various forms of anger, irritability, or general grumpiness. While straightforward, clues like this can have multiple valid answers depending on the required letter count and the specific nuance intended by the puzzle setter. Answers can range from common emotions like RAGE or ANGER to more archaic terms like CHOLER or SPLEEN, which are frequently used to add a layer of challenge and historical depth to a puzzle.
Understanding the synonyms and historical associations of "ill temper" is key to mastering these types of clues. Crossword constructors love to play on words with multiple meanings or origins, making words like BILE or SPLEEN perfect fits due to their historical link to temperament, even if their primary modern meaning is different. Always consider the context of other intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities and confidently arrive at the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance and Intensity: "Ill temper" can cover a spectrum from mild annoyance to explosive fury. Think about words that fit different levels of intensity, as the specific synonym might be subtly hinted at by other parts of the puzzle or the puzzle's theme.
- Check for Historical or Literary Context: Many words related to emotions or personality traits have older meanings or associations. Be prepared for answers like CHOLER or SPLEEN, which were historically tied to temperament and are common in more traditional crosswords.
- Utilize Letter Count and Intersections: This is often your most powerful tool. Once you have a few potential answers for "ill temper," match them against the available letter count and any letters you've already solved from intersecting clues. This will quickly eliminate incorrect options.
- Think Beyond Basic Synonyms: Sometimes, "ill temper" might lead to words describing the *result* of ill temper (e.g., a SNARL) or an *action* associated with it. Broaden your thinking if direct synonyms don't fit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ill temper' typically refer to in crosswords?
'Ill temper' in crosswords usually refers to a state of being angry, irritable, or having a bad mood. Common answers include synonyms for anger, resentment, or a general disposition of grumpiness.
Are there historical or classical words often used for 'ill temper' in crosswords?
Yes, classic crossword setters often favor older or more formal words. For 'ill temper,' you might find answers like CHOLER (referring to one of the four humors) or SPLEEN (historically associated with melancholy and bad temper).
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'ill temper,' like IRE and RAGE?
The number of letters is often the primary differentiator. Additionally, consider the nuance: IRE suggests a strong displeasure, while RAGE implies a more intense, uncontrolled outburst. Context from crossing words is crucial for pinpointing the exact answer.