scratched crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most comprehensive solutions and explanations for the clue "scratched crossword clue" to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "scratched crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SCORED: To mark a surface with an incision or line, often with a pointed object, resulting in a 'scratch'.
ETCHED: To incise a design or mark on a surface, especially metal or glass, using acid or a sharp tool, creating a lasting 'scratch'.
GRAZED: To scrape lightly, especially the skin, causing a superficial 'scratch' or abrasion.
MARRED: To impair the appearance of; disfigure, often by a 'scratch' or blemish.
7 Letters
RUFFLED: To disturb the smoothness or composure of, often implying a 'scratched' or disheveled look, particularly for feathers or hair.
ABRADED: To scrape or wear away by friction, leading to a roughened or 'scratched' surface.
More About "scratched crossword clue"
"Scratched" is a versatile word in crosswords, often appearing as a past participle. It can refer to a physical act of marking a surface, such as with a sharp object, or it can imply a more gentle abrasion. Beyond the literal, it can also suggest a metaphorical act, like 'scratching an itch' (satisfying a desire) or 'being scratched from a list' (removed or cancelled).
When encountering this clue, it's essential to consider the context provided by other words in the clue or intersecting letters. The number of letters in the answer is also a critical hint. Common synonyms involve various forms of marking, damaging, or removing, making it a rich source for creative crossword setters.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Tense: "Scratched" is in the past tense. Your answer will likely be a past tense verb or an adjective derived from a past tense verb (e.g., 'abraded' for a surface).
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Beyond the physical mark, think about "scratched" as in 'cancelled' (e.g., a horse scratched from a race) or 'disturbed' (e.g., ruffled feathers). The setter might be playing on these alternative meanings.
- Look for Figurative Language: Sometimes "scratched" can hint at an idiom or a less literal meaning. Consider phrases like "scratched the surface" for superficiality.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. They are your most reliable guide to narrowing down possibilities, especially with clues that have multiple viable answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'scratched' typically imply in crossword clues?
'Scratched' in crosswords often refers to a physical mark or abrasion, but can also imply cancellation, removal from a list (as in 'scratched from the race'), or a state of being disheveled or slightly damaged. Always consider the context of the puzzle.
How can I find synonyms for 'scratched' in a crossword?
To find synonyms, think about the nuance of 'scratched': is it a light mark (grazed, scuffed), a deep incision (scored, gouged), or a metaphorical removal (nixed, cancelled)? Consider different parts of speech, as 'scratched' is a past participle, which may suggest past tense verbs or adjectives.
Are there common pitfalls when solving 'scratched' clues?
A common pitfall is focusing only on the literal meaning. 'Scratched' can be used idiomatically (e.g., 'scratched an itch') or metaphorically. Also, pay attention to the tense and whether the answer should be a verb, adjective, or noun (e.g., 'a scratch').