crossword clue nervous – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "nervous," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "crossword clue nervous" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EDGY: Feeling tense or irritable.
5 Letters
TENSE: Stretched tight; feeling apprehension or unease.
JUMPY: Easily startled; feeling agitated.
7 Letters
ANXIOUS: Experiencing worry, unease, or nervousness, typically about an event or something with an uncertain outcome.
UNQUIET: Not quiet; disturbed or agitated.
12 Letters
APPREHENSIVE: Anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen.
More About "crossword clue nervous"
"Nervous" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often appearing in various forms (adjective, verb). It can refer to a state of mind, a physical sensation, or even a system in the body (nervous system). Its ambiguity allows for a wide range of synonyms, making it a favorite for setters who enjoy testing solvers' vocabulary depth and ability to think broadly.
When you encounter "nervous" in a clue, think about the context. Is it describing a person's emotional state, a feeling before a big event, or a physical reaction? The number of letters will guide you significantly, but always consider words like 'anxious', 'tense', 'edgy', 'apprehensive', or even more specific terms depending on the puzzle's theme or difficulty. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a less common synonym, rewarding those with a rich vocabulary.
Crossword setters frequently use 'nervous' to prompt solvers to consider subtle nuances of meaning. They might pair it with an indicator like "a bit nervous" (e.g., pointing to EDGY) or "feeling truly nervous" (e.g., suggesting ANXIOUS). Always consider direct synonyms first, but also words that describe the *effect* or *manifestation* of being nervous, as these can often be valid solutions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for synonyms: "Nervous" is highly synonymous. Brainstorm words that mean uneasy, fearful, agitated, or on edge. The more synonyms you know, the quicker you'll find the answer.
- Consider word length: The number of letters in the answer is your primary filter. Use this to immediately narrow down your list of potential synonyms for clues like "nervous."
- Check surrounding letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to significantly narrow down possibilities. Even one confirmed letter can make a big difference in solving a clue like this.
- Analyze the clue's nuance: Is it "nervous" as in shy, or "nervous" as in high-strung or excitable? The subtle difference implied by the rest of the clue might point to a very specific synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues like 'nervous' have multiple answers?
Clues such as 'nervous' often have multiple answers because many words share similar meanings (synonyms) or can apply in various contexts. Crossword setters deliberately use such versatile words to challenge solvers and offer different possibilities depending on the intersecting letters and puzzle theme.
How can I improve my speed in solving clues like 'nervous'?
To improve speed for 'nervous' type clues, focus on common synonyms and their letter counts. Practice associating the clue with various words of different lengths (e.g., EDGY, TENSE, ANXIOUS). Developing a strong vocabulary for emotions and states of being will be particularly helpful.
What's the difference between 'nervous' and 'anxious' in crossword contexts?
While 'nervous' and 'anxious' are often interchangeable, 'anxious' sometimes implies a stronger sense of worry or apprehension about a future event, whereas 'nervous' can be a more general state of unease or excitement. In crosswords, the nuance might guide you if the puzzle provides additional context or indicators.