plagued crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "plagued," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "plagued crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BESET: To be persistently troubled or harassed by something, often difficulties or problems.
VEXED: Feeling or showing annoyance, frustration, or worry, often due to a persistent problem.
7 Letters
HAUNTED: Often used when something troubles or obsesses someone persistently, like a memory, or a place is frequented by a ghost.
8 Letters
TROUBLED: Affected by problems or difficulties; experiencing distress or anxiety.
HARASSED: Subjected to aggressive pressure or intimidation; persistently bothered.
8 Letters
INFESTED: (Of a place) containing large numbers of a pest or undesirable thing, implying being overrun and bothered.
9 Letters
AFFLICTED: (Of a problem or illness) causing pain or suffering to someone or something.
More About "plagued crossword clue"
The term "plagued" in crosswords is a versatile clue that can point to various forms of distress, annoyance, or persistent trouble. It derives from the word 'plague,' which originally referred to a widespread disease, but has evolved to mean any persistent trouble or annoyance. When solving, thinking about the root meaning of 'to bother' or 'to suffer from' is key.
Common synonyms for 'plagued' often involve words describing a state of being constantly bothered or afflicted. This could be by emotional burdens, physical ailments, or even literal pests. The diversity of possible answers reflects the many contexts in which something can 'plague' an individual or an area.
Understanding the context of the crossword puzzle can significantly narrow down the possibilities. For instance, if the puzzle has a medical theme, 'afflicted' might be more likely. If it's about persistent worries, 'troubled' or 'vexed' could fit. Always consider the precise number of letters needed, as this is your most critical constraint.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Their Nuances: When you encounter a clue like "plagued," think of all possible synonyms and then consider the subtle differences in their meanings. Does the clue imply physical suffering, emotional distress, or being overrun by something?
- Check Letter Counts First: Always prioritize the given letter count. It's the most powerful filter for potential answers. Eliminate words that don't match the length immediately.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues. These are crucial for confirming or ruling out potential answers for "plagued." Sometimes, a single confirmed letter can unlock the entire word.
- Think About Common Crossword Conventions: Crossword constructors often use specific word types or tenses. If 'plagued' is used, think of past participle verbs or adjectives (often ending in -ED) that fit the meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'plagued' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'plagued' usually refers to being afflicted, troubled, bothered, or harassed by something persistently. It often implies a state of distress or a recurring problem, whether physical, emotional, or in the context of being overrun by something undesirable.
How can I identify the correct answer for 'plagued' if there are multiple options?
The correct answer often depends on the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues. Consider the nuances of each synonym – 'beset' implies being surrounded by problems, 'infested' suggests being overrun by pests, and 'vexed' points to a feeling of annoyance. Match the context of the puzzle's theme or other clues if possible.
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for 'plagued' answers?
While not always, answers to 'plagued' clues might sometimes end in -ED, indicating a past participle (e.g., TROUBLED, HARASSED, VEXED, AFFLICTED). Look for common synonyms that fit the letter count and the 'past action' implication of 'plagued'.