worried crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the clue "worried" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Discover the perfect word, along with explanations, to conquer your crossword today.
Solutions for "worried crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
UNEASY: Feeling troubled, uncomfortable, or apprehensive. It often implies a milder form of worry or disquiet.
7 Letters
ANXIOUS: Feeling or showing worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. This is a common and direct synonym for worried.
8 Letters
AGITATED: Feeling or appearing troubled or nervous. While often implying visible unrest, it can also describe an internal state of worry.
9 Letters
CONCERNED: Troubled, worried, or anxious, often implying a caring or interested involvement with the subject of worry.
DISTURBED: Having had one's normal pattern or functioning interrupted, especially by worry or emotional distress.
12 Letters
APPREHENSIVE: Anxious or fearful that something bad or unpleasant will happen, specifically anticipating a future event.
More About "worried crossword puzzle clue"
"Worried" is a frequently encountered clue in crossword puzzles because it's a fundamental human emotion with a rich tapestry of synonyms. Crossword setters love such words as they allow for a variety of answers depending on the required letter count and the specific nuance they wish to convey. For example, "uneasy" might suggest a slight discomfort, while "apprehensive" points to a specific fear about the future.
Understanding these subtle differences can be key to unlocking the correct answer. The setter might use a descriptive phrase in the clue that hints at the intensity or context of the worry. Always consider if the clue implies a general state of mind or a reaction to a particular circumstance. This mental exercise not only helps solve the current puzzle but also enhances your overall vocabulary and solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "worried," consider the intensity and context. Is it mild worry (e.g., UNEASY) or a more intense, specific fear (e.g., APPREHENSIVE)? This can narrow down options.
- Count the Letters: Always check the number of boxes in the grid. This is the single most important filter for any crossword clue, immediately eliminating many possibilities for words like 'worried'.
- Leverage Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can significantly reduce the number of potential answers for a clue like "worried."
- Think About Parts of Speech: Ensure your answer matches the part of speech implied by the clue. "Worried" can be an adjective (ANXIOUS) or a past participle (CONCERNED), so be mindful of how it fits the surrounding clue context if provided.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'worried' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'worried' often found in crosswords include ANXIOUS, UNEASY, APPREHENSIVE, CONCERNED, DISTURBED, and AGITATED. The best fit will depend on the letter count and intersecting letters in your puzzle.
How do I choose the best 'worried' synonym when multiple fit the definition?
Always prioritize the letter count first. Then, use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities. If still unsure, consider the specific nuance of 'worried' the clue might be hinting at (e.g., general unease versus specific fear).
Why do crosswords use synonyms so often?
Synonyms are a core element of both cryptic and standard crosswords. They test your vocabulary depth and ability to identify precise word meanings, allowing setters to create challenging yet fair clues that encourage thoughtful solving.