ill will crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "ill will", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the potential solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "ill will crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SPITE: A desire to hurt, annoy, or offend someone; petty ill will, often motivated by revenge or resentment.
6 Letters
MALICE: The desire to do evil; a feeling of deep-seated ill will or animosity that can lead to harmful actions.
HATRED: Intense and passionate dislike; a strong, often enduring, feeling of ill will towards someone or something.
ENMITY: The state or feeling of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something; deep-seated, often mutual, ill will.
RANCOR: Bitterness or resentfulness, especially when long-standing; a deep and often hidden form of ill will that persists over time.
9 Letters
ANIMOSITY: Strong hostility or animus; a feeling of strong dislike, opposition, or ill will.
More About "ill will crossword"
"Ill will" is a classic crossword clue that refers to negative feelings or intentions. It's a broad term that encompasses a range of emotions from simple dislike to profound hatred or a desire to harm. Crossword constructors love this clue because it has many synonyms that vary in length and nuance, making it versatile for different puzzle grids.
When you encounter "ill will" in a crossword, think about the intensity and duration of the negative feeling. Is it a petty annoyance (spite) or a deep-seated, long-lasting bitterness (rancor, enmity)? The surrounding clues and the number of letters required will usually guide you to the precise answer. Understanding these subtle differences can make a significant impact on solving your puzzle.
This clue often appears in puzzles that test your vocabulary and ability to distinguish between closely related synonyms. Being familiar with words like malice, hatred, enmity, and rancor is key. Sometimes, the clue might be phrased slightly differently, like "bad feeling" or "hostile intent," but the core meaning of "ill will" remains.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the intersecting letters from other clues. These provide invaluable hints for narrowing down the possible answers, especially when a clue like "ill will" has multiple strong candidates.
- Consider Nuance: While many words mean "ill will," some are more intense or specific. "Spite" implies pettiness, while "rancor" suggests a long-held bitterness. Pay attention to any subtle hints in the clue that might point to a specific nuance.
- Check Word Length: This is the most crucial filter. If "ill will" requires a six-letter word, you can immediately rule out longer or shorter synonyms.
- Think Synonyms Broadly: Beyond the direct synonyms listed here, consider phrases or less common words that convey a sense of negativity or hostility. Sometimes a crossword clue might aim for a more obscure or less direct synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ill will' mean in a crossword context?
'Ill will' in a crossword context refers to feelings of unfriendliness, hostility, or animosity towards someone. It's a common clue for synonyms like malice, hatred, enmity, or rancor.
Are there other words similar to 'ill will' often found in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include malevolence, animosity, spite, venom, and grudge. The specific answer will depend on the letter count and intersecting letters in your puzzle.
How do I choose between multiple possible answers for 'ill will'?
Always check the letter count and the intersecting letters from other clues. If multiple words fit the meaning, the intersecting letters are key to narrowing down the correct answer. Sometimes, subtle nuances in the clue's phrasing might hint at a specific synonym.