nervous crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "nervous," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with concise explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "nervous crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EDGY: Feeling tense or nervous, often easily provoked.
5 Letters
TENSE: In a state of mental or nervous strain.
JUMPY: Easily startled; nervous.
7 Letters
ANXIOUS: Characterized by a state of uneasiness and apprehension.
8 Letters
SKITTISH: Easily scared; nervous.
10 Letters
HIGHSTRUNG: Extremely nervous or sensitive.
More About "nervous crossword puzzle clue"
The word "nervous" is a common adjective in daily language, and its presence in crossword puzzles reflects its versatility in describing various states of apprehension, anxiety, or unease. Clues related to "nervous" can range from straightforward synonyms like "anxious" or "tense" to more nuanced descriptions such as "on edge," "jittery," or "apprehensive." The key to solving such clues often lies in considering the subtle differences in meaning and the context provided by other words in the clue.
Crossword setters often play with the multifaceted nature of "nervous." It could refer to a psychological state, a physical reaction (like trembling), or even a disposition (e.g., a "nervous" horse). Therefore, when encountering "nervous" in a clue, it's crucial to think beyond the most obvious synonyms and consider how the word might be applied in different scenarios. Matching the answer to the exact nuance required by the clue, combined with the number of letters, is essential for success.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "nervous," consider if it implies anxiety, shyness, physical tremor, or sensitivity. This helps differentiate between similar-length answers like EDGY and TENSE.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Often, an intersecting word will give you a few letters, narrowing down the possibilities significantly and making the choice between synonyms much easier.
- Think of Idioms and Phrases: "Nervous" can be part of phrases (e.g., "nervous wreck," "bundle of nerves"). While less common for direct single-word answers, understanding these can sometimes hint at the type of word required.
- Practice Synonyms: Building a strong vocabulary of synonyms for common emotional states will greatly improve your speed and accuracy in solving puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'nervous' often imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'nervous' often implies a state of anxiety, tension, or being easily startled. Look for synonyms like EDGY, TENSE, ANXIOUS, JUMPY, or SKITTISH. The specific context of the puzzle, such as surrounding letters or a cryptic style, will help narrow down the exact term.
Are there common patterns for 'nervous' clues?
Yes, 'nervous' can appear as a direct synonym, but it might also be clued metaphorically, e.g., 'on edge' or 'having butterflies'. Cryptic clues might use wordplay related to 'nerves' or 'strings'. Always consider the letter count and any crossing letters you already have.
How can I distinguish between similar 'nervous' answers?
When multiple answers seem to fit, pay close attention to the nuances of the clue. Is it about physical shakiness (TREMBLY), mental apprehension (APPREHENSIVE), or being easily frightened (SKITTISH)? The other words in the clue and the existing letters in the grid are your best guides.