The daily crossword puzzle presents a unique blend of intellectual challenge and linguistic delight. Every solver, from the casual enthusiast to the seasoned pro, knows the feeling: that moment when a particularly vexing crossword clue stops you dead in your tracks. It’s not just about knowing words; it’s about understanding the setter’s subtle dance between definition, wordplay, and misdirection. Today, we’re diving into a prime example of such a clue that often leaves solvers pondering: “Strong, muscular (8).”
This seemingly straightforward crossword clue is a masterclass in how a simple pairing of adjectives can conceal a surprisingly nuanced answer. At first glance, your mind probably races through a litany of synonyms for power and physique. Words like robust, brawny, mighty, sinewy, powerful, and burly might immediately spring to mind. And that’s precisely where the setter wants you to start. This type of definitional crossword clue relies on you to sift through a common concept to pinpoint the
exact
word that fits both the description and, crucially, the letter count.
Eight letters. That vital piece of information instantly narrows the field. While “strong” and “muscular” conjure many images, finding that perfect eight-letter word that encompasses both qualities, without any additional interpretive leaps, is the true test. It’s not enough for a word to merely mean ‘strong’ or ‘muscular’; it must encapsulate both facets in a concise, authoritative manner. The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in this precision, forcing you to delve deeper into your vocabulary than a simple thesaurus search might allow.
Think about the context in which you might encounter such a term. Is it describing an athlete, an animal, or perhaps something more abstract? The broadness of the hint “strong, muscular” means the answer could apply to various scenarios, yet it remains singular and specific within the confines of the crossword grid. This ambiguity, combined with the precise letter count, makes it a fascinating brain teaser. It’s a common tactic in challenging crosswords: give a clear, direct definition, but choose a word that isn’t the absolute first one that comes to mind for many.
Many a crossword solver has stared blankly at a grid, only to have the perfect word suddenly materialize after stepping away for a moment. That’s the power of the subconscious working on a tricky crossword clue. It’s about more than just remembering a definition; it’s about connecting concepts, exploring synonyms, and appreciating the subtle differences in meaning that distinguish one strong word from another. When you finally unearth the correct eight-letter solution for “Strong, muscular,” there’s a profound sense of satisfaction that comes from cracking the setter’s code.
This particular type of descriptive crossword clue is a staple across various difficulty levels of word puzzles. From the daily quick crossword to more cryptic challenges, understanding how to approach these dual-adjective hints is a valuable skill. It encourages a meticulous review of your lexicon, pushing you beyond surface-level associations. So, before you rush to find the answer to this compelling crossword clue, take a moment. Ponder the nuances, consider the options, and relish the mental exercise. The journey to the solution is often as rewarding as the solution itself. This introduction is just the beginning of understanding how to tackle such intriguing challenges in the world of crossword puzzles.
Available Answers:
POWERFUL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 6 October 2025