provoke crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "provoke crossword puzzle clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their length, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle completed.
Solutions for "provoke crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
VEX: To annoy, frustrate, or worry someone, often with minor irritations.
4 Letters
GOAD: To provoke or annoy (someone) in order to stimulate some action or reaction.
5 Letters
TAUNT: To provoke or challenge (someone) with insulting remarks.
EGGON: To encourage someone to do something, often something foolish or risky.
6 Letters
INCITE: To encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behaviour).
FOMENT: To instigate or stir up (an undesirable or violent sentiment or course of action).
RATTLE: To make someone feel nervous, worried, or irritated.
8 Letters
IRRITATE: To make (someone) annoyed, impatient, or angry.
More About "provoke crossword puzzle clue"
"Provoke" is a versatile verb that often appears in crossword puzzles because it has a rich array of synonyms. Clues related to 'provoke' can refer to inciting a reaction, stirring up trouble, annoying someone, or even challenging an opponent. Understanding the subtle differences between synonyms like 'incite,' 'goad,' 'vex,' and 'foment' is key to picking the correct answer when multiple options seem plausible.
Crossword setters love using such words because they allow for clever wordplay and misdirection. For instance, 'provoke' could be clued as 'stir up,' 'annoy,' 'egg on,' or 'cause a reaction.' The length of the answer, combined with intersecting letters from other clues, will ultimately guide you to the precise word. Always consider the context within the puzzle to ensure accuracy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For "provoke" and similar clues, consider if the tone is negative (e.g., 'annoy'), active (e.g., 'incite'), or more subtle (e.g., 'vex'). This can help differentiate between synonyms.
- Check for Wordplay: Crossword clues often employ puns, anagrams, or double meanings. If a direct synonym doesn't fit, think creatively about how "provoke" might be hinted at metaphorically or through a different part of speech.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Never solve a crossword clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are your most valuable allies. Even if you have multiple words that could 'provoke,' only one will correctly fit all the crossing letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a crossword clue has multiple possible answers?
If a crossword clue has several answers that fit, check the intersecting letters from other solved clues. This will usually narrow down the options to the correct word. Also, consider the specific nuance or context of the clue, as sometimes synonyms have slightly different meanings.
How can I improve my speed in solving crosswords?
Improving speed comes with practice. Familiarize yourself with common crosswordese (words frequently used in puzzles), learn common abbreviations, and practice recognizing different clue types (e.g., anagrams, double definitions, puns). Regular solving builds mental agility and pattern recognition.
Are there specific strategies for themed crossword puzzles?
Yes, for themed puzzles, try to identify the theme early. The theme often reveals itself through longer answers or a series of related clues. Once you grasp the theme, it can provide significant hints for other answers, helping you unlock the rest of the puzzle more easily.