what a shame crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "what a shame", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you need a short interjection or a direct phrase, find your solution here.
Solutions for "what a shame crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ALAS: A common interjection expressing regret, sorrow, or a sense of disappointment, perfectly fitting the sentiment of "what a shame."
PITY: Often used in the phrase "What a pity!", which directly conveys a meaning similar to "what a shame," expressing sorrow or compassion for a regrettable situation.
5 Letters
SHAME: Directly corresponds to the clue, used as an exclamation to express regret, disappointment, or embarrassment about a situation.
More About "what a shame crossword clue"
The phrase "what a shame" is an idiomatic expression used to convey regret, disappointment, or a feeling of pity regarding a specific event or situation. It's a versatile phrase that can range from mild disappointment over a minor inconvenience to genuine sorrow about a significant loss. In crosswords, clues like this often target common interjections or short phrases that capture such emotional responses.
When encountering this clue, crossword constructors often look for words that succinctly express regret or unfortunate circumstances. This can include direct synonyms or phrases that are commonly used in similar contexts. Understanding the nuances of such expressions can significantly improve your ability to solve related clues, as it helps you anticipate the type of word or phrase the puzzle-maker is looking for.
The answers provided—ALAS, PITY, and SHAME—are all excellent examples of words that fit this emotional bill. They are short, impactful, and frequently appear in crosswords due to their common usage and clear meaning in conveying regret or sadness.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required in the grid before trying to fit an answer. This immediately narrows down your options, especially for clues with multiple possible solutions like "what a shame."
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues to confirm or eliminate potential answers. If 'ALAS' fits the definition but doesn't work with the second letter from an intersecting word, it's likely not the answer.
- Think About Context and Tone: For emotional or descriptive clues, consider the general tone of the puzzle. Is it formal or informal? This can sometimes help you choose between synonyms that have slightly different connotations.
- Practice Common Interjections: Crosswords frequently use common interjections and exclamations. Familiarize yourself with words like 'ALAS', 'OH DEAR', 'DARN', 'PSHAW', etc., as they appear often.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because words can have synonyms, different contexts, or varying letter counts that fit the same meaning. This adds to the challenge and variety of puzzles. The specific answer you need depends on the number of letters required and the surrounding cross-references in your puzzle.
How can I choose the best answer when multiple options fit?
To choose the best answer when multiple options fit, consider the length of the blank in your crossword grid. Also, look at the intersecting words (cross-references). The correct answer will be the one that fits both the clue's meaning and the intersecting letters from other clues you've solved or are trying to solve.
Are there other common expressions of regret used in crosswords?
Yes, beyond 'what a shame', other common expressions of regret or disappointment in crosswords include 'OH DEAR', 'WOE IS ME', 'TOO BAD', or even simpler interjections like 'DARN' or 'SIGH'. The context and letter count are always key.