That Lingering Sting: Decoding Today’s Crossword Clue
Welcome back, word warriors! Today’s adventure into the cryptic world of crosswords centers on a feeling we all know, perhaps a little too well: a sense of deep regret. The clue? “Remorseful feeling.”
This deceptively simple phrase opens a treasure chest of possibilities, forcing us to consider the multifaceted nature of regret. Is it a light pang of conscience after a minor misstep, or a soul-crushing burden carried for years? The intensity and origin of the feeling are crucial clues themselves.
When tackling a clue like “Remorseful feeling,” it’s wise to consider synonyms. Think about words that evoke a similar emotional landscape: contrition, regret, guilt, sorrow, even shame. Each word paints a slightly different picture, suggesting a potential letter count and overall tone.
But digging deeper than the surface level is crucial. Crossword constructors love playing with nuance. Consider the
source
of the remorseful feeling. Was it caused by a specific action? A forgotten responsibility? A broken promise? The answer could hint at the underlying cause, perhaps even using a word related to that cause instead of the feeling itself.
Grammar is your friend! Pay close attention to the tense and number of the clue. Is it singular or plural? Present, past, or future? This seemingly minor detail can drastically narrow down your options. A plural clue suggests a word ending in “s,” while a past tense clue might hint at a word with “ed” or another past participle ending.
Context is king. What are the surrounding letters in the grid? Have you already filled in intersecting words? Use those known letters to your advantage! They can provide vital hints, eliminating possibilities and leading you closer to the elusive answer. Look for common letter combinations and patterns. Do any of the existing letters suggest a prefix or suffix?
Don’t underestimate the power of prefixes and suffixes. They can significantly alter the meaning of a word. For example, “un-” or “dis-” can reverse a word’s meaning, while “-ness” can transform an adjective into a noun. Considering common prefixes and suffixes related to regret and sorrow can unlock valuable possibilities.
Think outside the box. Crossword clues often employ wordplay, puns, and misdirection. The most obvious answer might not always be the correct one. Challenge your assumptions and consider alternative interpretations of the clue. Could the clue be referencing a well-known phrase or idiom related to remorse? Is there a double meaning at play?
Finally, remember the golden rule of crossword solving: patience. Don’t get discouraged if the answer doesn’t immediately jump out at you. Take a break, revisit the clue with fresh eyes, and explore different angles. Sometimes, the solution reveals itself when you least expect it. Good luck and happy puzzling! Remember to utilize the existing letters in the grid to your advantage!
Available Answers:
REGRET.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Location Is Everything By Guilherme Gilioli