Navigating the world of crossword puzzles often means encountering clues that seem straightforward at first glance, only to reveal layers of potential answers. One such crossword clue that frequently pops up, challenging even seasoned solvers, is “Short-tempered.” It’s a beautifully concise phrase, yet it opens a Pandora’s box of possibilities for the daily crossword enthusiast.
The essence of “short-tempered” immediately conjures images of someone easily annoyed, quick to anger, or prone to sudden outbursts. For any crossword solver, the initial thought process involves brainstorming synonyms for this specific characteristic. Is the setter looking for a common adjective, or something more obscure? This is where the true art of crossword clue analysis comes into play.
Consider the spectrum of words that describe someone who is “short-tempered.” You might immediately think of terms like irritable, testy, or touchy. These are strong contenders, often appearing in various crossword puzzles. But the beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to lead you down less obvious paths. Could the answer be peevish, showing a petty irritability? Or perhaps irascible, suggesting a general proneness to anger? The precise fit depends entirely on the letter count and the crossing letters you’ve already filled in your grid.
A master crossword setter might also play with the nuance of “short-tempered.” Is it someone who is hot-headed, implying impulsiveness? Or snappy, indicating quick, sharp responses? Fiery, implying passion and intensity, could also be a clever misdirection. The choice of synonym can drastically alter the difficulty level of the crossword clue. When you encounter “Short-tempered” in your daily crossword, remember that the setter has a vast vocabulary at their disposal, and they love to use it to challenge your own.
Beyond direct synonyms, consider the subtle ways this characteristic can be described. Sometimes, the crossword clue might hint at the
effect
of being short-tempered rather than the direct state. Could it be a word that describes a quick fuse, or someone who blows up easily? This type of indirect cluing requires a deeper dive into idiomatic expressions or less literal interpretations. It’s a fantastic exercise in expanding your vocabulary for future crossword puzzle success.
The trick to unlocking clues like “Short-tempered” in any crossword puzzle is not just knowing definitions, but understanding the setter’s potential intentions. Are they aiming for a common, everyday word, or a more sophisticated, less frequently used synonym? The length of the blank spaces in your crossword grid is your most vital piece of information. A five-letter answer will naturally be different from an eight-letter one, even if both describe someone short-tempered. This strategic thinking is fundamental to becoming a proficient crossword solver.
Next time you’re faced with this compelling crossword clue, take a moment. Don’t just jump to the first word that comes to mind. Think about the various shades of meaning, the different lengths of potential answers, and the subtle hints the setter might be providing elsewhere in the puzzle. The satisfaction of cracking a well-disguised crossword clue like “Short-tempered” is one of the greatest joys of solving crosswords. It’s a testament to the power of language and the thrill of the intellectual chase that keeps us coming back for our daily dose of word puzzles.
Available Answers:
TESTY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0811-25 NY Times Crossword 11 Aug 25, Monday