tough crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're grappling with a clue that feels like a real puzzle, you've landed on the perfect page. Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions for "tough crossword clue," along with explanations to help you understand the logic behind each answer. Dive in and conquer that challenging spot in your crossword!
Solutions for "tough crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HARD: Referring to something difficult to accomplish or understand, often used to describe a challenge in general context.
6 Letters
TRICKY: Implying cunningness or complexity, requiring careful handling or thought, often suggesting a misleading or deceptive element in the clue itself.
7 Letters
ARDUOUS: Describing something requiring great effort or exertion; synonym for very difficult to overcome, often implying a strenuous task.
8 Letters
DAUNTING: Something that appears intimidating or formidable, making one feel apprehensive or discouraged, perfectly capturing the feeling of a 'tough' clue.
More About "tough crossword clue"
The phrase "tough crossword clue" isn't just a challenge; it's an invitation to a deeper dive into linguistics, lateral thinking, and sometimes, even a bit of obscure knowledge. These clues are designed by setters to truly test a solver's mettle, moving beyond straightforward definitions to engage with wordplay, puns, anagrams, hidden words, and cryptic constructions. Solving them successfully provides an immense sense of accomplishment and sharpens cognitive skills.
Often, a clue deemed "tough" might employ misdirection, leading you to think of one meaning of a word when another, less common one, is intended. They might also rely on specific jargon or names that are not universally known, or require an understanding of advanced cryptic crossword techniques. Understanding the setter's mindset and common clueing patterns is key to unlocking these brain-teasers, transforming frustration into triumph.
Our goal with this page is not just to provide answers, but to illuminate the pathways to solving. By dissecting the potential meanings and contexts for a 'tough' clue, we aim to equip you with the insights needed to tackle not just this specific puzzle, but future challenging ones too. Every tough clue solved is a step forward in your crossword mastery journey.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Re-read the Clue Carefully: Often, tough clues contain subtle hints in their wording, punctuation, or capitalization. Look for common crossword 'indicators' for anagrams, reversals, or hidden words.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many tough clues play on words with multiple meanings. If your first thought doesn't fit, try thinking of less common definitions or homophones.
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as anchors. Sometimes, seeing a few letters of the answer can suddenly make the 'tough' clue click into place.
- Think About Wordplay: Is it a pun? An anagram? A reversal? Cryptic clues often use specific patterns. For instance, words like "confused," "scrambled," or "mixed" often indicate an anagram.
- Take a Break: Staring at a tough clue for too long can lead to mental fatigue. Step away for a few minutes, or even hours, and come back with fresh eyes. You'd be surprised how often the answer reveals itself then.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crossword clue 'tough'?
A 'tough' crossword clue often involves misdirection, puns, obscure vocabulary, very specific niche knowledge, or clever wordplay that requires thinking outside the box. They are designed to challenge solvers beyond common definitions, sometimes requiring an understanding of cryptic techniques or less common word usages.
How can I improve at solving tough crossword clues?
To improve, practice regularly with various types of crosswords, especially those known for their difficulty. Learn common crosswordese (words frequently used in puzzles), pay close attention to grammar and word forms within the clue, and don't be afraid to use external resources for obscure terms or to verify suspicions. Reading explanations of solved puzzles can also reveal patterns and techniques setters use for difficult clues.
Are 'tough' clues always obscure words?
Not necessarily. While some tough clues rely on obscure words, many are challenging due to their clever construction, involving cryptic elements, double meanings, or a need to anagram or rearrange letters. The 'toughness' can stem from the clue's structure and the solver's interpretation rather than just the obscurity of the answer word itself.