blow up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "blow up crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of all possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.

Solutions for "blow up crossword clue" by Letter Count

3 Letters

POP: To burst, often with a sudden sharp sound, like a balloon. Used when something inflates and then bursts.

5 Letters

BLAST: To explode or destroy with explosives. A direct synonym for a violent 'blow up'.

EXTOL: To praise enthusiastically. 'Blow up' can sometimes mean to praise excessively or magnify someone's qualities.

7 Letters

ENLARGE: To make something bigger, often by inflating or expanding. Implies a process of 'blowing up' in size.

INFLATE: To fill with air or gas, causing it to expand. Directly related to 'blowing up' something like a tire or balloon.

EXPLODE: To burst or shatter violently and noisily as a result of rapid combustion, decomposition, or pressure. A common and literal interpretation of 'blow up'.

8 Letters

DETONATE: To explode or cause to explode. Often used in the context of bombs or other explosive devices, a more technical term for 'blow up'.

More About "blow up crossword clue"

The clue "blow up" is a classic example of a multi-faceted term in crosswords, often requiring solvers to think beyond its most common meaning. While our minds might first jump to literal explosions or inflation, this phrase can also refer to greatly exaggerating something, losing one's temper, or even praising someone excessively. Crossword setters cleverly leverage these various interpretations to challenge solvers.

Understanding the context is key when encountering such a versatile clue. The number of letters, the surrounding words in the grid, and other interconnected clues will often provide subtle hints as to which specific meaning of "blow up" the setter intends. For instance, a short answer like POP or BLAST might refer to a sudden burst or destruction, while longer answers like INFLATE or DETONATE will guide you towards expansion or more controlled explosions.

Always consider both the literal and figurative meanings of "blow up." This clue highlights the richness of the English language and how a simple phrase can have a multitude of uses, making it a favorite for crossword constructors looking to test solvers' vocabulary and lateral thinking.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are common synonyms for 'blow up' in crosswords?

Common synonyms for 'blow up' in crossword puzzles can include EXPLODE, DETONATE, BURST, or BLAST when referring to destruction. However, it can also mean INFLATE or ENLARGE when related to size, or even EXTOL or RAVE when used in the context of exaggerated praise.

How does the clue 'blow up' differ in meaning depending on context?

The meaning of 'blow up' in crosswords is highly dependent on context and the number of letters. It could imply physical destruction (e.g., a building blowing up), inflation (e.g., blowing up a balloon), excessive anger (e.g., blowing up at someone), or even exaggerated praise (e.g., blowing up someone's ego). Always consider the surrounding clues and the answer length.

Are there short answers for 'blow up'?

Yes, for 'blow up', short answers like POP (3 letters) are common, especially when referring to balloons or sudden bursts. Other short options might include BLAST (5 letters) for destruction or EXTOL (5 letters) for praise.