scold crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "scold crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, sorted by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "scold crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RATE: To criticize or reprimand someone, often sharply.
5 Letters
CHIDE: To express mild disapproval or reprimand gently.
6 Letters
BERATE: To scold or criticize (someone) angrily.
REBUKE: To express sharp disapproval or criticism of (someone) because of their behavior or actions.
7 Letters
UPBRAID: To find fault with (someone); scold.
8 Letters
ADMONISH: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
More About "scold crossword clue"
The word "scold" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often appearing in various forms and contexts. It can refer to a mild rebuke or a harsh verbal assault, leading to a range of potential answers depending on the nuance implied by the puzzle setter and, crucially, the number of letters available in the grid. Crossword clues involving "scold" frequently test your vocabulary of synonyms.
When encountering "scold" in a crossword, consider the intensity of the action. While 'CHIDE' suggests a gentle telling-off, 'BERATE' or 'UPBRAID' imply a much stronger, angrier reprimand. Paying attention to other words in the clue, or even the overall theme of the puzzle, can sometimes provide hints about which specific synonym the setter is looking for.
Ultimately, having a broad vocabulary of words meaning "to scold" at your fingertips, combined with the ability to fit them into various letter counts, is key to mastering these types of clues. Our list above provides the most common and widely accepted solutions to help you on your way.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer before trying to fit a word. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues. These are your strongest allies in confirming or rejecting a potential answer.
- Consider Nuances: While not always necessary, sometimes the specific nuance of 'scold' (e.g., mild vs. harsh) can guide you to the correct synonym. Words like 'chide' are softer than 'berate'.
- Think of Homophones/Homonyms: Some clues play on words that sound alike but have different meanings, or words with multiple meanings. While less common for 'scold', always keep an open mind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'scold' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'scold' often found in crosswords include words like CHIDE, REBUKE, BERATE, RATE, UPBRAID, and ADMONISH. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues in the puzzle.
How do I choose the correct 'scold' answer when multiple options fit?
When multiple words could fit a 'scold' clue, the best strategy is to use intersecting letters from other solved clues. The word's length is also crucial. For instance, if you have a 5-letter slot, 'CHIDE' might be a fit, whereas a 6-letter slot could be 'BERATE' or 'REBUKE'.
Are there different intensities of 'scolding' in crossword answers?
Yes, some 'scold' synonyms imply a milder reprimand (like CHIDE), while others suggest a more forceful or angry criticism (like BERATE or UPBRAID). While crosswords generally don't require this nuance, understanding it can sometimes help anticipate the right word choice.