Wrestling with Words: Unpacking a Fussy Crossword Clue
Alright, fellow crossword fanatics, time to dive headfirst into another juicy clue that’s been tickling our collective brains:
“Quarrelsome, bad-tempered (7)“
.
Seven letters. A synonym for someone who isn’t exactly known for their sunny disposition. Sounds simple, right? Maybe. But as we all know, the devil is in the details (and the cunning wordplay) of these delightful puzzles.
This clue immediately evokes images of grumbling old men shaking their fists at clouds, disgruntled cats hissing at their owners, and maybe even a perpetually annoyed fictional character we all know and secretly love. The beauty of a good crossword clue like this one is the sheer breadth of words it
could
represent.
We need to consider the nuances of “quarrelsome” and “bad-tempered.” Are we looking for a word that leans more towards aggressive confrontation? Or something that hints at a simmering, passive-aggressive frustration? Does “quarrelsome” imply a tendency to pick fights, while “bad-tempered” suggests a more constant state of irritation?
Breaking down the clue into its component parts is crucial. Think about words that mean “argumentative,” “belligerent,” “irritable,” “grouchy,” and “cantankerous.” Now, try to picture them all lined up, each vying for a spot in our seven-letter solution.
Consider also synonyms. While “bad-tempered” is relatively straightforward, “quarrelsome” could be masquerading behind more subtle terms. Think about words like “contentious,” “litigious,” or even something related to a constant state of disagreement. The dictionary, that trusty friend, is, of course, your best ally in moments like these.
Furthermore, don’t discount the power of common phrases and idioms. Does this clue allude to a well-known expression describing someone with a perpetually negative attitude? Maybe a saying related to a specific animal known for its temperament?
The length constraint – seven letters – is both a blessing and a curse. It narrows down the possibilities considerably, but it also forces us to think more creatively. A longer word might be a more direct synonym, but we’re looking for something concise and punchy.
So, where do we begin our search?
Start by listing every synonym you can think of for “quarrelsome” and “bad-tempered.” Don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Sometimes the solution lies in a slightly less obvious definition or a more nuanced understanding of the words provided.
Then, refine that list. Eliminate any words that are shorter or longer than seven letters. Now you have a manageable pool of potential answers.
Next, think about the surrounding letters in the crossword grid. Do any of the intersecting words offer hints or constraints? Maybe a particular letter is already in place, limiting your options further.
Finally, don’t be afraid to leave this clue for a bit and come back to it later with fresh eyes. Sometimes a little distance can provide the perspective you need to crack the code.
Good luck and happy puzzling! Let me know your thoughts and insights in the comments below. What words came to mind immediately? What strategies are you using to solve this frustrating, yet rewarding, crossword clue?
Available Answers:
STROPPY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Wednesday, 13 August 2025