“Cleared (up) (6)” presents itself as a deceptively simple crossword clue, yet it holds a depth that can stump even seasoned solvers. This particular phrasing, common in many grids, demands more than just a surface-level synonym hunt. It’s a brilliant example of how a simple parenthetical addition can completely reshape your approach to a definition, guiding you to a precise six-letter solution.
When encountering “cleared” as a
crossword clue
, our minds race through a variety of definitions. Is it about making something understandable, as in a concept that’s become lucid? Perhaps it refers to removing obstacles, like a path or a space being made free. Or could it signify exoneration, where someone is proven innocent? The word also relates to weather, such as clouds dispersing, or even to a financial transaction, where a payment has been processed. Each of these interpretations is valid for “cleared” in isolation, but the addition of “(up)” narrows the field considerably, acting as a crucial signpost.
The parenthetical “(up)” is not just an optional extra; it’s an integral part of this
crossword clue
‘s mechanism. In common English usage, “cleared up” frequently implies completion, resolution, or an improvement in a state or situation. Consider the context:
A mystery that is “cleared up” becomes resolved.
A sky that “cleared up” goes from cloudy to bright.
A misunderstanding that is “cleared up” ceases to exist.
A throat that “cleared up” is no longer obstructed.
This subtle addition pushes us away from meanings of mere removal or financial processing and firmly towards ideas of clarification, resolution, or the disappearance of something negative. It suggests a process that has reached a definitive, often positive, conclusion. The
crossword clue
setter is nudging you towards a very specific phrasal verb or adjective that captures this complete transformation.
With the length constraint of six letters, the challenge becomes finding that perfect word that encapsulates “cleared” with the specific nuance of “up.” Think about verbs that describe something becoming clear or resolving itself in a concise, single-word form. Or perhaps an adjective describing a state of lucidity or freedom from obstruction, brought about by an action. This requires sifting through synonyms not just for “clear,” but for “clear up” as a complete idea.
The key here is to think beyond simple direct synonyms. Sometimes, a setter will use a phrase like this to point to a verb that inherently contains the idea of something being made plain or resolved. What six-letter word immediately springs to mind when you consider a situation or an issue that has been brought to a state of understanding, or when a physical space has become free of impediments, specifically with that sense of completion or resolution?
This type of
crossword clue
with parenthetical modifiers is a regular feature in grids, designed to test your precision and understanding of idiomatic expressions. Always pay close attention to these small additions. They often indicate a phrasal verb, a specific context, or a particular shade of meaning that helps disambiguate the primary definition. When you see a word followed by “(down)”, “(out)”, or “(off)”, know that you’re looking for a very specific interpretation, not just any synonym. These elements transform a broad definition into a very narrow target, making the six-letter limit a guide rather than a barrier.
The solution to “Cleared (up) (6)” lies in considering all these facets and letting the combination of the main verb and its parenthetical modifier guide you to the exact word. It’s a rewarding moment when all the pieces click into place for such a well-crafted
crossword clue
.
Available Answers:
TIDIED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 4 August 2025