tension crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "tension," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "tension crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PULL: A physical force creating tautness, as in a rope.
5 Letters
DREAD: Anticipatory anxiety or a feeling of great fear.
6 Letters
STRESS: Mental or emotional strain caused by demanding circumstances.
STRAIN: A state of mental or emotional pressure; also, a physical pulling force.
UNEASE: A feeling of anxiety or discomfort.
7 Letters
ANXIETY: A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, often about an uncertain outcome.
8 Letters
SUSPENSE: A state or feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen, especially in a narrative.
FRICTION: Conflict or animosity caused by a clash of opposing wills or interests.
PRESSURE: The exertion of continuous force on or against an object; can also mean mental or emotional stress.
9 Letters
STIFFNESS: The inability to bend or be bent easily; often refers to muscular rigidity resulting from tension.
More About "tension crossword clue"
"Tension" is a highly versatile word in the English language, making it a frequent and sometimes tricky crossword clue. Its meanings range from the physical, like the tautness of a rope or a stretched muscle, to the emotional, such as stress, anxiety, or suspense. In a broader sense, it can also refer to strained relations between people or groups, often clued as "conflict" or "strain."
Crossword setters love clues like "tension" because they allow for multiple interpretations, testing the solver's ability to consider context. The key to cracking such clues lies in examining the intersecting letters and the theme or style of the particular puzzle. Is it a pun-heavy puzzle, or more straightforward? This will help you decide if the answer leans towards a literal definition or a more metaphorical one.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide not just the answers, but also the understanding of why certain words fit. By knowing the various facets of "tension," you'll be better equipped to tackle future puzzles where similar multifaceted clues appear, enhancing your overall crossword-solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Context: Always consider the surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme. Does 'tension' refer to a physical state, an emotional feeling, or a social dynamic? For example, 'emotional tension' would point to ANXIETY, while 'rope's tension' might indicate PULL.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Once you have a potential meaning, think of all the synonyms for that specific sense of "tension." This helps generate a pool of words to match the letter count. Common synonyms include stress, strain, anxiety, dread, and suspense.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck, fill in any crossing letters from other solved clues. These letters are your most powerful tool for narrowing down the possibilities and confirming the correct answer for 'tension'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'tension' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'tension' is a versatile clue that can refer to various meanings: emotional stress, physical tautness or pull, narrative suspense, or even interpersonal conflict and strain. The context of the surrounding clues is crucial for identifying the correct interpretation.
Are there common synonyms for 'tension' in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms that appear as answers to 'tension' include STRESS, STRAIN, ANXIETY, PULL, DREAD, UNEASE, SUSPENSE, FRICTION, and PRESSURE. The number of letters required will narrow down the possibilities.
How can I distinguish between 'tension' as stress and 'tension' as a physical force?
Look for contextual clues. If the clue implies a feeling or emotional state (e.g., 'feeling of unease'), answers like ANXIETY or DREAD are likely. If it suggests a physical force or tautness (e.g., 'rope's tautness'), PULL or STRAIN might fit. Sometimes, a qualifier in the clue like 'political tension' can point to FRICTION.