There’s a unique thrill in staring down a fresh crossword grid, a canvas of empty squares waiting to be filled. But with that thrill often comes a moment of pause, a challenging crossword clue that makes you stop and think. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one such intriguing entry that frequently pops up in puzzles: “Have great fear of (5).”
This five-letter mystery is more than just a word; it’s an invitation to explore the subtle yet powerful nuances of language. “Have great fear of” isn’t about a fleeting worry or a minor apprehension. The inclusion of “great” elevates the emotion, pointing towards something far more profound—a deep-seated dread, an overwhelming terror, or an intense, pervasive sense of foreboding. When you encounter such a precisely worded crossword clue, it’s a strong signal from the setter that the answer will capture this heightened emotional state with equal precision.
Solving a crossword clue like this requires you to delve into your lexicon of emotions. What single word, comprising just five letters, can encapsulate the entirety of having “great fear of” something? Think about the active verbs and potent adjectives that describe someone experiencing intense trepidation directed towards a specific object or situation. It’s not just about
being
afraid, but about
having
that profound fear towards something. This distinction is crucial when you’re trying to crack the code of a clever crossword clue.
Five-letter words can be deceptively tricky in crosswords. Their brevity often makes us think they should be easy, yet they can be among the most elusive. For “Have great fear of (5),” consider the common structures of words expressing strong feelings. Are we looking for a word that acts as a direct synonym for the act of anticipating something terrifying, or perhaps one that describes a state of deep apprehension? The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in how it prompts us to dissect the phrasing itself.
If you find yourself stuck on this particular crossword clue, you’re in good company. Many a seasoned solver has paused at such an evocative phrase. The key is to narrow down the vast vocabulary of fear. Move beyond common synonyms for general fear and focus on those that convey the
greatness
of the fear. What word truly packs that emotional punch, suggesting an intense, almost visceral reaction to something anticipated or encountered? This mental exercise is fundamental to mastering any challenging crossword clue.
Remember the context of the puzzle too. If you have any intersecting letters filled in, those are invaluable guides. A single confirmed letter can often be the spark that illuminates the entire solution for a tricky crossword clue. Don’t be afraid to step away from the puzzle for a moment; sometimes, a fresh perspective is all you need for that “aha!” moment.
The satisfaction of finally cracking a challenging crossword clue like “Have great fear of (5)” is immense. It’s a testament to your linguistic agility and your ability to think laterally. Keep exploring the nuances of language, keep challenging yourself, and remember that every unsolved square is just another opportunity for a rewarding breakthrough. Happy solving, and may your grids always be full!
Available Answers:
DREAD.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 24 November 2025