Today, we’re diving headfirst into a classic piece of wordplay that often leaves solvers scratching their heads: the “Bringing up (7)” crossword clue. It’s one of those brilliant, deceptively simple clues that perfectly illustrates why we love the challenge of the daily puzzle. When you first encounter a crossword clue like this, your brain immediately cycles through its most common interpretations, and that’s precisely what the setter is counting on.
The beauty of a crossword clue such as “Bringing up (7)” lies in its versatility. The phrase “bringing up” itself is a chameleon in the English language, capable of adopting multiple identities depending on context. This is a common tactic in the world of crosswords – taking a seemingly straightforward phrase and exploiting its various nuances to create a delightful, sometimes frustrating, conundrum.
Think about it: what does “bringing up” conjure in your mind? Perhaps you instantly picture the nurturing aspect of raising a child or caring for a young animal. This is a very common interpretation, leading many to search for synonyms related to childhood development or parental guidance. This particular avenue of thought for a crossword clue can lead to terms associated with care, growth, and instruction.
Then, there’s the sense of introducing a topic or subject into a conversation. “Bringing up a point” or “bringing up an old story” is a familiar turn of phrase. Here, the meaning shifts from physical care to verbal presentation or discussion. For a crossword clue, this might make you consider words related to mention, presentation, or introduction. The setter might be looking for a synonym that captures the essence of putting something forward for consideration.
And let’s not forget the more physical, upward motion. “Bringing up the rear,” for instance, implies a position at the back, but “bringing up” something from below could mean retrieving, elevating, or even excavating. This interpretation of the crossword clue pushes us to consider verbs of ascent, retrieval, or emergence. It forces a different lexical search, moving away from interpersonal or intellectual concepts towards something more tangible.
What makes this “Bringing up (7)” crossword clue particularly potent is its precise seven-letter length. This constraint narrows down the field of possibilities, yet still leaves enough room for ambiguity across the different meanings. It forces you to delve deeper into your vocabulary, considering less common synonyms for each interpretation, or perhaps even a more abstract connection.
When tackling a crossword clue of this nature, patience is key. Don’t rush to the first word that comes to mind for one specific meaning of “bringing up.” Instead, consider all the potential interpretations. Sometimes, the setter is hinting at a less obvious, even slightly archaic, meaning of the phrase, or they might be playing on a more nuanced definition that you wouldn’t immediately associate with the common usage.
The true artistry of a good crossword clue like “Bringing up (7)” is its ability to make you stop, think, and truly explore the depths of language. It’s a rewarding experience when the penny finally drops, and you realize which specific meaning the setter intended all along. It’s not just about filling in boxes; it’s about understanding the clever linguistic dance between the setter and the solver. This specific crossword clue is a perfect example of that intricate ballet. It’s a reminder of the endless fascination that word puzzles hold for us all.
Available Answers:
RAISING.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Saturday, 9 August 2025