ran crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the crossword clue "ran", categorized by letter count to help you quickly find the solution you need. We've got you covered for every puzzle!
Solutions for "ran crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FLED: Escaped quickly or hurried away, a common synonym for 'ran' in the context of escape.
SPED: Moved at a high rate of speed, directly indicating a quick movement.
5 Letters
RACED: Competed in a speed contest or moved at top speed, often used when "ran" implies competition.
6 Letters
FLOWED: Used when referring to liquids moving, e.g., "The river ran downstream" can be clued as "The river flowed downstream".
7 Letters
MANAGED: To have run a business or organization, indicating direction or operation, as in "She ran the company".
8 Letters
OPERATED: Controlled the functioning of something, like "ran a machine" or "operated a system".
SCURRIED: Moved quickly with short, rapid steps, implying a hurried or rushed movement.
More About "ran crossword clue"
"Ran" is a deceptively simple yet highly versatile word in the English language, making it a frequent and sometimes challenging clue in crosswords. Its primary meaning as the past tense of "run" often relates to movement, speed, or escape. However, it can also refer to the operation or management of a business, the flow of liquids, or even the process of something continuing over time. This broad semantic range is what gives crossword setters so much room for creativity when crafting clues involving "ran."
When you encounter "ran" in a crossword, it's crucial to consider the context provided by the rest of the clue. Is it asking about a person moving, a liquid flowing, a machine functioning, or an event unfolding? Each nuance can lead to a different correct answer. For instance, "Ran a race" would lead to answers like RACED or SPED, while "Ran a company" points towards MANAGED or OPERATED.
Understanding these different facets of "ran" is key to unlocking many puzzles. Our detailed explanations aim to provide not just the answer, but also the reasoning behind it, helping you improve your crossword-solving skills for future challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always read the full clue. The words accompanying "ran" will heavily hint at the specific meaning intended by the setter.
- Think Beyond Movement: While "ran" often means moving quickly, remember its other definitions related to management, operation, or liquid flow.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: "Ran" can be part of a phrasal verb (e.g., "ran out of," "ran up against"). Look for clues that might suggest such a construction, even if "ran" is isolated.
- Letter Count is Critical: Use the given letter count to narrow down possibilities. If you're stuck between two synonyms, the length will be your deciding factor.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ran' typically signify in crossword clues?
'Ran' is a versatile past-tense verb in crosswords, often pointing to synonyms for moving quickly (e.g., FLED, SPED), managing or operating something (e.g., MANAGED, OPERATED), or the movement of liquids (e.g., FLOWED).
How can I distinguish between different meanings of 'ran' when solving?
Pay close attention to the other words in the clue. If it's about a business, think 'MANAGED'. If it's about water, think 'FLOWED'. If it's about escape or speed, consider 'FLED' or 'SPED'. The surrounding context is key to pinpointing the correct interpretation.
Are there common tricky uses of 'ran' in crosswords?
Yes, 'ran' can be tricky due to its multiple meanings. Clues might use it metaphorically, as part of an idiom, or in a less common definition. Always consider all possible definitions of 'run' (the base verb) and its past tense 'ran' before settling on an answer. Sometimes, it might even imply a sequence or continuous action, like "The play ran for months."