struggle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "struggle" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your grid with confidence.
Solutions for "struggle crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TOIL: To work extremely hard, often implying a physical or mental struggle against difficulties.
5 Letters
FIGHT: To engage in a struggle or conflict, either physically or ideologically.
6 Letters
STRIVE: To make great efforts to achieve or obtain something, often against difficulties or obstacles.
BATTLE: A prolonged and arduous struggle or conflict.
7 Letters
CONTEND: To struggle to surmount a difficulty or obstacle, or to compete vigorously with others.
WRESTLE: To struggle with a difficulty or problem, or to grapple physically with an opponent.
GRAPPLE: To struggle or deal with (a problem or difficulty).
More About "struggle crossword clue"
The word "struggle" in a crossword clue is a versatile term that can refer to various forms of effort, conflict, or difficulty. It might imply a physical confrontation, such as a fight or a wrestle, or a mental battle against an addiction or a complex problem. Often, it refers to the arduous effort required to achieve a goal, like 'striving' for success or 'toiling' in the fields.
Crossword setters love "struggle" because of its rich tapestry of synonyms. Depending on the exact phrasing of the clue and the number of letters needed, the answer could be a verb describing the action of struggling (e.g., GRAPPLE, CONTEND) or a noun referring to the struggle itself (e.g., BATTLE, PLIGHT). Paying attention to the context provided by other words in the clue is key to deciphering which nuance of "struggle" is intended.
Consider the emotional weight behind the word as well. A "struggle" can evoke feelings of hardship, perseverance, or even despair, which can sometimes guide you towards answers related to suffering or adversity, such as AGONY or ORDEAL, if the clue hints at such depth.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: "Struggle" can be physical (WRESTLE, FIGHT), mental (CONTEND with thoughts), or effort-based (TOIL, STRIVE). Which type of struggle does the clue imply?
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the required number of letters. This immediately narrows down your options significantly, eliminating many synonyms that don't fit the length.
- Look for Companion Words: Clues like "struggle with a problem" might suggest answers like GRAPPLE or COPE, while "power struggle" points towards BATTLE or RIVALRY.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is the clue asking for a verb ("to struggle") or a noun ("a struggle")? This can help differentiate answers like FIGHT (verb/noun) from STRIVE (verb) or BATTLE (noun/verb).
- Think of Common Crossword Tropes: Many common synonyms for "struggle" appear frequently in puzzles. Familiarize yourself with them over time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'struggle' commonly mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'struggle' can refer to a physical fight, an effort against odds, a period of difficulty, or even intense mental exertion. Common answers often include synonyms like TOIL, FIGHT, STRIVE, CONTEND, WRESTLE, or GRAPPLE, depending on the number of letters required and the specific nuance implied by the clue.
How can I identify the correct answer for a 'struggle' clue?
To identify the correct answer, consider the letter count, any accompanying words in the clue (e.g., 'struggle to cope,' 'power struggle'), and whether the context suggests a physical, mental, or effort-based struggle. Checking cross-referenced letters from other solved clues is also essential.
Are there different types of 'struggle' clues?
Yes, 'struggle' clues can vary. They might refer to a noun (e.g., 'a struggle'), a verb (e.g., 'to struggle'), or even be part of a larger phrase. The meaning can range from a violent confrontation to a quiet, internal battle against adversity, or simply a difficult effort. Pay close attention to the grammatical form and context.