down in the dumps crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "down in the dumps," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "down in the dumps crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SAD: Feeling unhappy or sorrowful; a common short answer for this state.
4 Letters
BLUE: A color often associated with sadness or melancholy, also used to describe a downcast mood.
6 Letters
GLOOMY: Describing a feeling of despondency or a lack of hope.
9 Letters
DEPRESSED: A more intense state of sadness, often implying a prolonged period of low spirits.
10 Letters
DESPONDENT: Characterized by a deep feeling of hopelessness, typically after a loss or disappointment.
MELANCHOLY: A feeling of pensive sadness, often without a clear cause, a classic synonym for being down.
More About "down in the dumps crossword clue"
"Down in the dumps" is a widely recognized idiom in the English language, signifying a state of profound sadness, dejection, or low spirits. Its prevalence in crosswords stems from the rich array of single-word synonyms that accurately capture its meaning, allowing puzzle constructors flexibility in clueing for various word lengths.
Understanding such idiomatic expressions is key to mastering crosswords. When you encounter a clue like this, think broadly about emotions and their nuances. Is it mild sadness, or a deeper sense of despair? The context of other intersecting words can often guide you to the precise answer needed.
This clue often tests a solver's vocabulary for emotional states, ranging from simple adjectives like "SAD" to more complex terms like "DESPONDENT" or "MELANCHOLY." Recognizing the various degrees of 'being down' is crucial for selecting the correct solution for your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues related to emotions like "down in the dumps," consider the intensity. Is the answer looking for mild sadness (SAD) or something more profound (DEPRESSED)?
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the meaning with the exact number of letters required. There can be multiple valid synonyms, but only one will fit the grid.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These are often the most reliable way to confirm or narrow down your options for a tricky clue.
- Consider Common Synonyms: For expressions like "down in the dumps," mentally list as many single-word synonyms as you can. This expands your pool of potential answers.
- Think of Figurative Language: Crosswords often use idioms, metaphors, or phrases where the literal meaning isn't the solution. Always consider the figurative meaning first.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'down in the dumps' mean in everyday language?
'Down in the dumps' is an idiom meaning feeling sad, depressed, or in low spirits. It describes a state of unhappiness or melancholy.
Why is 'down in the dumps' a common crossword clue?
This phrase is popular in crosswords because it's an idiomatic expression with many single-word synonyms (like SAD, BLUE, GLOOMY, DEPRESSED) that fit various letter counts, making it versatile for puzzle setters.
Are there other similar crossword clues related to feeling sad?
Yes, other common clues for similar feelings include 'feeling blue,' 'in low spirits,' 'unhappy,' 'sorrowful,' or direct synonyms like 'melancholy' or 'woeful'.