dig up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "dig up", you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers across various lengths, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the context and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "dig up crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROOT: To search for something by digging, often with a snout, or to find by searching.
5 Letters
DELVE: To dig; to search thoroughly for information or resources.
6 Letters
EXHUME: To dig out something buried, especially a corpse for examination or reburial.
7 Letters
UNEARTH: To find something in the ground by digging, or to discover something hidden or forgotten.
8 Letters
EXCAVATE: To make a hole or channel by digging; to uncover something by digging, often in an archaeological context.
More About "dig up crossword clue"
The clue "dig up" is a classic example of a crossword clue that can have both a literal and a figurative meaning. Literally, it refers to the act of digging into the ground to retrieve something, such as treasure, archaeological artifacts, or even a buried pet. This leads to answers like UNEARTH or EXCAVATE, which directly relate to physical digging.
Figuratively, "dig up" can imply uncovering information, secrets, or past events. For instance, a journalist might "dig up" dirt on a politician, or a historian might "dig up" forgotten facts about an ancient civilization. In this context, answers like DELVE or even ROOT can be highly relevant, expanding the scope beyond mere physical action to intellectual or investigative pursuits.
Understanding these dual interpretations is key to solving such clues. Always consider the wordplay and potential idioms. The precise length of the answer and the intersecting letters will often guide you towards the correct meaning and the best fit for your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Wordplay: Many clues, like "dig up," rely on puns, idioms, or multiple meanings. Always consider if the clue is literal or figurative.
- Check Letter Counts: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Use it to narrow down possibilities quickly and efficiently.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Don't force an answer. If an answer doesn't fit with letters from other completed clues, it's likely incorrect. Use these overlaps to confirm your guesses.
- Consider Tense and Plurality: Ensure your answer matches the clue's tense (e.g., past, present) and plurality (singular, plural). If the clue is "dug up", the answer should likely be in the past tense too.
- Use Cross-References: If a clue refers to a specific field (e.g., archaeology, journalism), think about vocabulary related to that field.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to start a crossword puzzle when you're stuck?
If you're stuck, start by looking for short, common words that often appear in crosswords, like 'ERIN' or 'ELIA'. Also, tackle clues you are most confident about first, as these answers can provide crucial letters for other, trickier clues. Don't be afraid to take a break and come back with fresh eyes!
How can I improve my ability to solve "dig up" type clues?
Clues like "dig up" often have multiple meanings, from literal digging to unearthing facts or secrets. To improve, think broadly about synonyms and related concepts. Consider words that mean 'discover,' 'retrieve,' 'reveal,' or 'excavate.' Building your vocabulary for these conceptual layers will be very helpful.
Why do some crossword answers have multiple meanings or synonyms?
Crossword clues are often designed to be tricky and test your linguistic flexibility. Many words in English are polysemous (have multiple meanings) or have numerous synonyms, allowing constructors to create clever misdirections. The surrounding letters and other solved clues are vital for narrowing down the correct meaning and answer.