champing at the bit nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "champing at the bit nyt crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide quick and accurate answers to help you complete your New York Times crossword puzzles with ease. Find the perfect fit for your grid below!
Solutions for "champing at the bit nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
EAGER: Feeling or showing a keen desire or interest, often implying impatience to start.
7 Letters
ANXIOUS: Impatiently eager or apprehensive, aligning with the restless nature of champing at the bit.
More About "champing at the bit nyt crossword"
The idiom "champing at the bit" is a classic example of how crosswords use vivid, descriptive phrases. Originating from equestrianism, it describes a horse that is so eager to run or move forward that it chews on its bit impatiently. This image perfectly conveys a sense of restless anticipation, a strong desire to get started, or even a degree of impatience.
In the context of a New York Times crossword, clues like this test your understanding of idiomatic expressions. While the literal meaning points to a horse, the figurative meaning is what's relevant for the answer. Common synonyms for this state of mind include eager, anxious, restless, or impatient. The specific answer will depend on the required letter count in the puzzle, making it crucial to consider all plausible synonyms.
Mastering such idiomatic clues is a key skill for advanced crossword solvers. They often bridge the gap between simple vocabulary and nuanced language, adding a layer of challenge and satisfaction when solved. Answercrossword.com aims to demystify these clues, providing you with both the answer and the context to improve your overall solving prowess.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: For idiomatic clues like "champing at the bit," think of all possible one-word synonyms that describe the feeling or action implied. Words like EAGER, ANXIOUS, RESTLESS, or IMPATIENT are good starting points.
- Check intersecting letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These crucial letters will help you narrow down the possibilities for the idiom's answer, ensuring it fits the grid perfectly.
- Understand the tone: Sometimes, the specific nuance of the clue (e.g., impatient vs. merely eager) can guide you to a more precise answer, especially if multiple words of the same length fit loosely.
- Learn common idioms: Familiarize yourself with a wide range of English idioms. Many reappear in crosswords, and knowing their meanings will give you a significant advantage.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "champing at the bit" mean?
The idiom "champing at the bit" refers to a horse that is so eager to start a race or activity that it bites impatiently at the bit of its bridle. Metaphorically, it means to be restless, impatient, or eager to begin something.
Why is "champing at the bit" a common crossword clue?
This idiom is popular in crosswords due to its vivid imagery and the multiple synonyms (like EAGER, ANXIOUS, RESTLESS) that can serve as answers, depending on the number of letters required. It tests a solver's knowledge of common English idioms and their associated emotions.
Are there other idioms like "champing at the bit" often seen in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords frequently feature common idioms that have concise single-word synonyms. Examples include 'Bite the bullet' (ENdure), 'Spill the beans' (REVEAL), or 'Bury the hatchet' (RECONCILE). Familiarity with such phrases is a great asset for crossword solvers.