crossword clue tension – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "tension", 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 your puzzle solved quickly.
Solutions for "crossword clue tension" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PULL: A force that causes stretching or strain, often a direct physical manifestation of tension.
6 Letters
STRAIN: A state of tension or excessive effort, whether physical or psychological.
7 Letters
ANXIETY: A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an event or something with an uncertain outcome, representing mental tension.
8 Letters
SUSPENSE: A state or feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen, often related to narrative or dramatic tension.
TAUTNESS: The quality of being stretched or pulled tight; tenseness.
More About "crossword clue tension"
"Tension" is a remarkably versatile word that frequently appears in crosswords due to its diverse meanings. From the physical tautness of a string or muscle to the psychological stress of a deadline, and even the dramatic anticipation in a narrative, understanding these nuances is crucial for solving clues related to it. Crossword setters often play on these different interpretations, requiring solvers to think beyond the most common definition.
When "tension" is clued, consider the context. Is it about a physical object? An emotional state? Or perhaps a literary device? Clues might use synonyms like 'strain', 'stress', 'pressure', 'pull', or 'anxiety'. Sometimes, the clue might hint at an opposite, such as 'relaxation' or 'release', guiding you towards a word that represents the absence of tension.
Mastering words with multiple meanings like "tension" can significantly improve your crossword-solving speed and accuracy. It's an excellent example of how understanding wordplay and diverse contexts is essential in the world of puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonymously and Antononymously: For a clue like "tension", brainstorm not only synonyms (strain, stress, anxiety) but also antonyms (relaxation, calm). Sometimes, a clue might be phrased to imply the opposite.
- Consider Different Contexts: Remember that words often have multiple meanings. "Tension" can be physical (rope), emotional (stress), or dramatic (story). Try to deduce which context the setter is hinting at.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: The most powerful tool in your crossword arsenal! If you have a few letters from intersecting words, they can quickly narrow down the possibilities for "tension" answers, especially when dealing with words of similar length.
- Check for Wordplay or Puns: Crossword setters love wordplay. Sometimes, a clue for "tension" might be a pun or a play on words, requiring a lateral thinking approach rather than a direct synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'tension' signify in a crossword puzzle?
'Tension' in a crossword puzzle can refer to various concepts: physical strain or tightness (e.g., of a rope), emotional stress or anxiety, or even dramatic suspense in a story. Its meaning depends heavily on the surrounding clue words and the puzzle's theme.
How can I identify the correct 'tension' answer among multiple options?
To identify the correct answer, consider the number of letters required, look for synonyms or related concepts hinted at elsewhere in the puzzle, and pay attention to any specific context provided in the clue (e.g., 'muscle tension' vs. 'story tension'). Cross-referencing with intersecting words is also key.
Are there common alternative words for 'tension' used in crosswords?
Yes, common alternatives include 'STRAIN', 'STRESS', 'PULL', 'TAUTNESS', 'ANXIETY', and 'SUSPENSE'. Depending on the nuance of the clue, words like 'FRICTION' or 'PRESS' might also be viable. Always think broadly about the different contexts of tension.