worked up crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "worked up crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Dive in to find the perfect fit!
Solutions for "worked up crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TENSE: Feeling or showing a state of mental or nervous strain.
HYPED: Extremely excited or enthusiastic.
6 Letters
FUMING: Displaying or feeling great anger or resentment.
HEATED: Marked by emotional intensity; passionate or angry.
7 Letters
EXCITED: Very enthusiastic and eager.
STIRRED: Moved emotionally; excited or agitated.
8 Letters
AGITATED: Feeling or appearing troubled or nervous.
More About "worked up crossword"
"Worked up" as a crossword clue is a classic example of how setters use common idioms to evoke specific single-word answers. This phrase points towards an emotional state of heightened arousal, which can manifest as anger, excitement, anxiety, or nervousness. The key to solving such clues lies in brainstorming synonyms for these various emotional nuances and then checking them against the letter count and intersecting words in your puzzle.
Crossword puzzles often rely on understanding the subtle shades of meaning in everyday language. "Worked up" is rarely about physical exertion in this context; instead, it almost exclusively refers to a mental or emotional state. Recognizing this distinction quickly helps narrow down the possibilities, making the puzzle-solving process more efficient and enjoyable.
Consider the context of the puzzle too. Is it a cryptic crossword, which might use a more elaborate wordplay for "worked up," or a quick crossword looking for a straightforward synonym? Our provided answers cover common solutions that fit various puzzle types and difficulty levels, giving you a strong starting point.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues involving emotions like "worked up," consider the intensity and specific type of emotion. Is it anger, excitement, fear, or general agitation? Each nuance can lead to a different set of synonyms.
- Consider Letter Count Early: Once you have a few potential synonyms in mind, immediately check their letter count against the empty squares. This is often the fastest way to eliminate incorrect answers and focus on viable options.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: If you're stuck, try to solve the words that cross your difficult clue. Even one or two confirmed letters from intersecting answers can significantly reveal the solution to "worked up."
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword setters use less common synonyms or a word that might fit the phrase in an older or less frequent usage. Don't be afraid to think outside the box or use a thesaurus.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'worked up' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'worked up' often refers to a state of emotional arousal, agitation, excitement, or nervousness. It prompts solvers to think of synonyms for these feelings, such as 'agitated,' 'tense,' 'fuming,' or 'excited,' depending on the letter count and other crossing clues. It implies an elevated emotional state.
How can I find synonyms for emotional states when solving crosswords?
To find synonyms for emotional states, consider the intensity and specific nuance of the feeling. Think about different parts of speech (verb, adjective, noun) that fit the clue. Using a thesaurus (either physical or online) or a dedicated crossword dictionary can be very helpful. Also, pay attention to any indicator words in the clue that might suggest a particular type of emotion or intensity, like 'highly' or 'slightly.'
Are common phrases like 'worked up' frequently used as crossword clues?
Yes, common phrases and idiomatic expressions are very frequently used as crossword clues. They challenge solvers to think beyond literal meanings and often lead to single-word answers that capture the essence of the phrase. Recognizing these phrases and their single-word equivalents is a key skill in crossword solving, as setters love to use them to make clues more challenging and engaging.