hairy crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! We're here to help you unravel the most perplexing clues. Below you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for "hairy crossword," categorized by letter count to make your puzzle-solving quick and effortless.
Solutions for "hairy crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HAIRY: The clue "hairy crossword" can be self-referential, meaning the crossword itself is described as hairy (difficult or complicated). In crosswords, sometimes the clue literally describes the nature of the puzzle or itself, making this a meta-answer.
TOUGH: A common synonym for 'hairy' when describing a challenging or difficult crossword puzzle. If a puzzle is "hairy," it's certainly tough to crack.
6 Letters
TRICKY: 'Hairy' often implies something is tricky or requires clever navigation, perfectly describing a challenging crossword with deceptive clues or complex wordplay.
7 Letters
ARDUOUS: This word means involving or requiring strenuous effort; difficult and tiring. An arduous puzzle is definitely a 'hairy crossword'.
9 Letters
DIFFICULT: The most straightforward interpretation of "hairy" when referring to a puzzle or task. A hairy crossword is, by definition, a difficult one.
More About "hairy crossword"
The clue "hairy crossword" often points to a puzzle that isn't just challenging, but perhaps unusually so. The term "hairy" can evoke a sense of complexity, involving many tangled elements or a daunting appearance. In the context of crosswords, this might mean a grid with an atypical layout, clues that are particularly obscure or rely on highly specialized knowledge, or wordplay that is exceptionally nuanced and hard to decipher.
When a crossword is described as "hairy," it signals that solvers should prepare for a significant mental workout. It suggests that standard solving techniques might not be sufficient, and a deeper dive into the clue's potential meanings, including puns, anagrams, and cryptic elements, will be necessary. Such puzzles are often designed to test the limits of a solver's vocabulary and lateral thinking skills, offering a greater sense of accomplishment upon completion.
Understanding the idiomatic use of "hairy" as difficult or risky is key here. It doesn't typically refer to a literal hairy characteristic but rather to the formidable nature of the challenge. This type of clue encourages solvers to think beyond the obvious and consider the puzzle's overall difficulty level as part of the solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Embrace the Challenge: For "hairy" clues, don't shy away. Often, the more difficult the clue seems, the more rewarding the answer. Break it down into smaller parts.
- Look for Wordplay Cues: If a crossword is 'hairy', it's likely packed with wordplay. Keep an eye out for indicators of anagrams (e.g., "confused," "mixed up"), hidden words (e.g., "in," "part of"), or reversals (e.g., "back," "recalled").
- Consider Alternative Meanings: Many "hairy" clues use words with multiple meanings. If your first interpretation doesn't fit, think of less common or idiomatic definitions of the words in the clue.
- Use Intersecting Letters Strategically: When you're stuck on a 'hairy' clue, try to fill in as many intersecting words as possible. Even a single letter can sometimes unlock a difficult answer by revealing part of its structure.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crossword 'hairy'?
A crossword is often described as 'hairy' when it presents significant challenges. This can include obscure clues, complex wordplay, less common vocabulary, or an unusual theme that makes it particularly difficult to solve.
How can I solve a particularly difficult or 'hairy' crossword?
To tackle a 'hairy' crossword, start by filling in the easiest clues first to get some intersecting letters. Pay close attention to wordplay indicators, cryptic definitions, and look for common crosswordese. Don't be afraid to take breaks and come back with fresh eyes, or consult a dictionary or thesaurus for less common words. Our strategies page offers more in-depth techniques.
Are there specific types of crosswords that are known to be 'hairy'?
Yes, some crosswords are inherently designed to be more challenging. Cryptic crosswords, for instance, are famously 'hairy' due to their intricate wordplay and double meanings. Themed puzzles can also become 'hairy' if the theme is particularly abstract or requires deep subject knowledge. Some constructors are also known for their highly challenging puzzles.