pried crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving the "pried crossword clue"! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you're looking for a quick solution or a deeper understanding, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "pried crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FORCED: To open or move something by applying physical pressure or force.
OPENED: To cause something to become unclosed or accessible, often with effort.
7 Letters
LEVERED: Lifted or moved with a lever, implying a prying action.
JEMMIED: Forced open with a short crowbar (a jemmy).
SNOOPED: Investigated or looked around furtively, often to discover private information.
8 Letters
WRENCHED: Pulled or twisted suddenly and violently, often to dislodge something.
9 Letters
INSPECTED: Examined carefully, often implying a prying or close look.
More About "pried crossword clue"
"Pried" is a versatile verb in crosswords, often hinting at physical action or inquisitive behavior. When a clue uses "pried," it typically refers to separating things by force, such as "pried open the lid," or it can mean to intrude or inquire persistently into someone's private affairs, as in "pried into her past." Understanding this dual nature is key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple options fit the letter count.
The physical sense of "pried" often involves tools or leverage, leading to answers like LEVERED, JEMMIED, or WRENCHED. These words convey the effort and method of separating something that was joined or closed. On the other hand, the intrusive sense evokes synonyms like SNOOPED, which emphasizes clandestine or nosy investigation rather than physical force.
Always consider the overall context of the crossword puzzle, including the theme if there is one, and any other words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning. The elegance of crossword clues often lies in their ability to use words with multiple meanings, making "pried" a prime example of a word that can lead to both satisfying solutions and frustrating dead ends without proper analysis.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: This is the golden rule for "pried" and any other crossword clue. Knowing the exact length eliminates many possibilities and narrows down your choices significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: "Pried" has several synonyms, as shown above. Think about what action the clue implies. Is it opening, separating, or investigating? Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can also spark ideas for the opposite action.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The most reliable way to confirm a "pried" answer (or any answer) is to check the letters it shares with other words in the grid. If an intersecting letter doesn't fit, your answer is likely incorrect.
- Think About Homographs: While "pried" is fairly straightforward, some words have identical spellings but different meanings. Always be aware of such nuances.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "pried" mean in a crossword context?
Pried in crosswords usually refers to forcing something open, separating things, or sometimes investigating intrusively. The exact meaning depends on the surrounding clue and available letters.
Are there synonyms for "pried" that often appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include FORCED, OPENED, LEVERED, WRENCHED, and JEMMIED for the physical action. For the inquisitive sense, words like SNOOPED or GOSSIPED might appear.
How do I know which "pried" answer to choose?
The letter count is crucial. Always match the number of letters provided in the grid. Additionally, check intersecting letters from other clues. The specific wording or nuance of the clue can also hint at the most accurate synonym (e.g., 'Pried open a lock' might point to JEMMIED).