worked crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "worked", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease and confidence.
Solutions for "worked crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
USED: Successfully employed or utilized something for a purpose.
5 Letters
PLIED: Applied oneself diligently and steadily to a task or trade.
6 Letters
TOILED: Worked extremely hard or incessantly, often implying strenuous effort.
7 Letters
LABORED: Worked hard, especially on a physical or mental task that requires significant effort.
8 Letters
OPERATED: Functioned or performed a task, particularly in reference to a machine, system, or business.
10 Letters
FUNCTIONED: Performed its proper or intended role; operated as designed or expected.
More About "worked crossword clue"
The word "worked" is a classic example of a crossword clue that relies heavily on its multiple meanings. It can describe various forms of effort, from intense physical exertion (as in 'toiled' or 'labored') to the methodical operation of machinery or systems (like 'operated' or 'functioned'). The key to solving such clues lies in examining the context provided by the rest of the crossword grid and the specific phrasing of the clue itself.
Beyond the literal sense of effort or operation, "worked" can also imply success (e.g., "it worked out") or even manipulation (e.g., "worked the crowd"). Crossword setters often leverage these diverse interpretations to create challenging yet fair clues. Always consider if the clue is pointing to a direct action, a result, or a more subtle form of influence. The number of letters in the answer provides a critical constraint, helping to narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Match the Tense: Always ensure your answer's verb tense matches that of the clue. Since "worked" is past tense, look for past tense solutions like 'toiled' or 'labored'.
- Consider All Meanings: Before committing, run through all possible interpretations of "worked"—effort, operation, success, manipulation—to see which fits best with the surrounding letters.
- Utilize Cross-References: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them as vital clues. They can instantly confirm or rule out potential answers for "worked".
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword setters use less common synonyms or a more abstract meaning of "worked." Don't be afraid to think outside the box once common answers are exhausted.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'worked' mean in a crossword clue?
In a crossword clue, 'worked' is highly versatile. It can refer to physical employment ('toiled', 'labored'), the operation of a mechanism ('operated', 'functioned'), or even the successful application of a method ('used', 'succeeded'). The context of the clue and surrounding words are crucial for identifying the specific meaning.
How do I determine the correct tense for a 'worked' answer?
The tense of the clue usually dictates the tense of the answer. Since 'worked' is in the past tense, its solutions will almost always be past tense verbs (e.g., 'toiled' not 'toil', 'labored' not 'labor'). Always match the verb tense to ensure an accurate fit for your puzzle.
Are there common synonyms for 'worked' frequently used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'worked' in crosswords often include words like TOILED, LABORED, OPERATED, PLIED, DRUDGED, SLAVED, or more broadly, USED or EXERTED. The exact synonym depends on the clue's nuance and the number of letters required for the answer.