The specific crossword clue, “Frightening tidal wave (7),” presents a fascinating challenge, blending descriptive language with a precise length constraint. When approaching a daily crossword clue of this nature, the initial step is always to dissect its components. We have “frightening,” an adjective conveying a sense of terror, awe, or immense power, and “tidal wave,” a noun phrase that immediately conjures images of massive, destructive ocean phenomena. The “7” signifies the exact number of letters our solution must contain.
Many solvers find themselves at a crossroads with such a detailed crossword clue. The key lies in identifying a single, seven-letter word that perfectly encapsulates both the terrifying aspect and the immense, wave-like quality. It’s not simply a large wave; it’s one that inherently instills dread or overwhelming fear. This nuance is critical when evaluating potential answers for this crossword puzzle clue.
Consider the vocabulary associated with natural disasters. How do we describe events that are both immense in scale and profoundly unsettling? The “frightening” part of the crossword clue pushes us beyond mere size to the emotional and psychological impact. A standard “tidal wave” is already large, but to be explicitly “frightening” suggests a particularly terrifying manifestation.
Common pitfalls when tackling this type of crossword clue include focusing too heavily on one part of the definition while neglecting the other. Some might brainstorm words related solely to “frightening” (e.g., scary, dreadful) or only to “tidal wave” (e.g., tsunami, breaker), then struggle to find a seven-letter word that combines both concepts seamlessly. The trick is to find a word that inherently carries both meanings without needing further adjectives.
Think about synonyms for “frightening” that also imply an overwhelming, perhaps even unstoppable, force of nature. What word captures the essence of a ‘tidal wave’ not just as a physical entity, but as an event that elicits profound fear and possibly awe due to its destructive potential? The solution to this crossword clue often resides in a word that has a dual meaning or a strong connotation that satisfies both parts of the prompt.
This particular crossword clue is a prime example of how word puzzle clues test your ability to synthesize disparate pieces of information into a single, elegant solution. It demands more than just a direct synonym; it requires a word that embodies the full scope of the phrase “frightening tidal wave.” It’s about finding that perfect lexical fit that captures the essence of both terms in one concise, seven-letter package, making it a truly satisfying type of crossword clue to solve. Mastering clues like this significantly enhances your overall crossword solving acumen.
Available Answers:
TSUNAMI.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Quick Crossword Clues Friday, 5 December 2025
Metro Quick Crossword Clues Tuesday, 19 August 2025