provokes crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "provokes", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "provokes crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
GOADS: To provoke or annoy (someone) in order to stimulate some action or reaction.
STIRS: To cause a strong emotional reaction in someone, often used when speaking of feelings.
SPURS: To encourage or stimulate (someone) to act, similar to urging forward.
VEXES: To make (someone) feel annoyed, frustrated, or worried, implying a mild form of provocation.
7 Letters
INCITES: To encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behavior), a stronger form of provocation.
AROUSES: To evoke or awaken (a feeling, emotion, or response), often used for less aggressive forms of stirring.
9 Letters
IRRITATES: To make (someone) annoyed, impatient, or angry, indicating a direct negative emotional response.
More About "provokes crossword clue"
"Provokes" is a common and versatile crossword clue that can point to a variety of actions, from gently inspiring a thought to aggressively inciting an action. Its meaning in a puzzle often depends on the context of other intersecting words and the constructor's specific intent. Clues like "provokes" test your ability to think of synonyms across different emotional and action-oriented spectrums.
When you encounter "provokes," consider its synonyms that imply causing an effect, stirring up feelings, or instigating a response. Words that relate to annoyance, stimulation, or initiation are often good candidates. The number of letters will narrow down the options significantly, making it easier to pinpoint the exact word the puzzle demands.
Understanding the subtle differences between words like "incites" (often negative), "stirs" (can be positive or negative), and "goads" (usually negative, pushing someone) is key to solving such clues accurately. Crossword constructors love these nuanced words as they provide a good challenge for solvers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "provokes," think about the *type* of provocation. Is it a gentle stirring of emotion, or a forceful incitement? This can help you differentiate between similar-length answers.
- Check Surrounding Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is the most crucial step in confirming or eliminating potential answers for "provokes."
- Consider Part of Speech and Tense: "Provokes" is a verb in the third person singular present tense. Your answer must also be a verb in the same tense (e.g., GOADS, STIRS, INCITES, AROUSES, VEXES).
- Brainstorm Synonyms and Antonyms: Even if you don't use the antonym, thinking of it can sometimes help clarify the exact meaning of the clue and lead you to the correct synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'provokes' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'provokes' often refers to actions that stir up feelings, reactions, or actions in others. It can mean to incite, arouse, instigate, or simply to annoy someone into a response. Common synonyms like 'goads', 'stirs', 'incites', and 'arouses' are frequently seen as answers.
Are there short answers for 'provokes'?
Yes, 'provokes' can have several short answers, typically 4-5 letters. Examples include GOADS, STIRS, SPURS, and VEXES. These are popular choices for constructors due to their concise nature and direct meaning.
How can I find synonyms for crossword clues?
To find synonyms for crossword clues, start by thinking of the most direct meaning of the word. Then, consider its various nuances (e.g., provoke as in 'incite' vs. provoke as in 'annoy'). Online thesauruses and crossword-specific dictionaries can be very helpful. Also, pay attention to the clue's part of speech and tense, as the answer must match.