ordeal crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "ordeal crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with brief explanations to help you understand why each answer fits.
Solutions for "ordeal crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TEST: A challenging situation or examination, a common synonym for 'ordeal'.
5 Letters
TRIAL: A difficult or unpleasant experience, often used in crosswords for 'ordeal'.
AGONY: Extreme physical or mental suffering, which an 'ordeal' certainly is.
6 Letters
PLIGHT: A dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation, often implying a difficult 'ordeal'.
TRAUMA: A deeply distressing or disturbing experience, another strong synonym for 'ordeal'.
9 Letters
NIGHTMARE: A terrifying or intensely unpleasant experience or situation, akin to an 'ordeal'.
11 Letters
TRIBULATION: A cause of great trouble or suffering, an exact match for 'ordeal'.
More About "ordeal crossword clue"
The term "ordeal" in a crossword puzzle typically points towards words that describe a very unpleasant, severe, or trying experience. Historically, an ordeal was a primitive form of trial to determine guilt or innocence by submitting the accused to a dangerous test, such as holding hot iron or being submerged in water. This historical context informs its modern use, where it signifies a severe test of endurance or a distressing situation.
When solving for "ordeal," common crossword setters often look for synonyms that convey struggle, suffering, or a difficult challenge. You might encounter words like 'test,' 'trial,' 'plight,' or 'agony.' The key is to match the intensity and emotional weight of "ordeal" to the available letter count in your puzzle. Thinking about different facets of suffering—physical, mental, or situational—can help narrow down the possibilities.
Understanding the nuances of such clues not only helps in solving the current puzzle but also builds your vocabulary and intuition for future crosswords. Always consider both the direct synonyms and more figurative meanings that could fit the context of the clue and the surrounding letters.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: "Ordeal" suggests difficulty and suffering. Look for answers that convey a similar tone. Clues can be literal or figurative; 'ordeal' often leans towards the dramatic.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already solved from intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. This is often the most critical step when multiple synonyms exist for a clue like 'ordeal'.
- Consider Word Length: Always pay close attention to the number of boxes provided in the grid. If 'ordeal' has a 5-letter slot, 'TRIAL' is a strong candidate, whereas for 11 letters, 'TRIBULATION' might be perfect.
- Think of Context: While "ordeal" is a straightforward clue, sometimes the surrounding words or the puzzle's theme can hint at a more specific type of ordeal (e.g., a legal ordeal, a personal ordeal).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a common strategy for solving 'ordeal crossword clue'?
When encountering 'ordeal' as a clue, think of synonyms related to difficult experiences, trials, or suffering. Common answers include TRIAL, TEST, PLIGHT, or AGONY, depending on the letter count. Consider both physical and mental hardships.
How do I determine the correct length for 'ordeal crossword clue' answers?
The length of the answer is indicated by the number of boxes in the crossword grid. If the clue asks for an 'ordeal' and there are five boxes, look for a five-letter synonym like TRIAL or AGONY. Always match your answer to the grid's specified length.
Can 'ordeal' have multiple meanings in crosswords?
While 'ordeal' primarily refers to a severe trial or experience, its crossword answers might subtly shift context. Sometimes it could lean towards a 'test' or 'examination' in a broader sense, or even a 'calvary' type of suffering. Always consider the nuances and surrounding clues.