vex nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "vex nyt crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and finish your puzzle.
Solutions for "vex nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
IRK: To annoy or exasperate, a concise synonym for vex.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To irritate or bother someone, a very common and direct answer for vex.
TEASE: To make fun of or provoke playfully, which can vex or bother someone.
PEEVE: To annoy, especially slightly, often used to describe a minor irritation.
6 Letters
BOTHER: To cause trouble or annoyance to, a straightforward synonym for vex.
More About "vex nyt crossword clue"
The clue "vex" in the New York Times crossword often points to words that signify irritation, annoyance, or bother. While simple in appearance, its solution can vary greatly depending on the letter count and surrounding letters in the grid. Common synonyms like "annoy," "irk," or "bother" are frequent candidates.
However, crosswords, especially the NYT, are known for their nuanced and sometimes tricky definitions. "Vex" might also refer to a less direct form of trouble or distress, requiring solvers to think beyond the most obvious synonyms. Understanding the various shades of meaning for "vex" is key to pinpointing the exact answer, making a seemingly simple clue surprisingly challenging.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always start by checking how many letters the answer needs. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Look at Crossing Letters: If you have any letters filled in from intersecting words, use them! They are crucial for confirming or ruling out potential answers.
- Think Synonyms and Nuances: Crossword clues often use synonyms, but sometimes they hint at more subtle meanings or even puns. For "vex," consider not just direct annoyance but also concepts like troubling or puzzling.
- Check for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: If the clue is part of a longer phrase or compound word, common prefixes (like UN-, RE-) or suffixes (-ING, -ED) might be implied.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "vex" usually mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, "vex" typically means to annoy, bother, or irritate. It often leads to answers like ANNOY, IRK, PEEVE, or BOTHER, but can also imply more subtle forms of distress or trouble.
How do I choose between similar answers like ANNOY and IRK?
The primary factor is the number of letters. If the clue requires a 5-letter word, ANNOY is a fit; if it's 3 letters, IRK is likely. Also, check surrounding letters already filled in the grid to see which word fits the pattern.
Does "vex" ever have a less common meaning in NYT crosswords?
Yes, occasionally. While its core meaning is annoyance, "vex" can sometimes hint at causing distress, troubling, or even slightly puzzling, depending on the setter's intent. Always consider the possibility of a less obvious synonym if the common ones don't fit.