fly off the handle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "fly off the handle". Whether you need a quick hint or a full explanation, we've got you covered to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "fly off the handle crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RAGE: To become intensely angry or furious.
FUME: To express or feel great anger, often silently.
6 Letters
LOSEIT: To suddenly lose emotional control, especially due to anger.
7 Letters
EXPLODE: To react with a sudden, violent outburst of temper.
FLIPOUT: To become extremely angry, excited, or irrational.
8 Letters
BOILOVER: For emotions, especially anger, to reach an uncontrolled outburst.
More About "fly off the handle crossword clue"
The idiom "fly off the handle" vividly describes a sudden loss of temper, much like an axe head detaching from its handle during a swing. This phrase is a popular choice for crossword setters due to its clear, yet figurative, meaning, allowing for a range of synonymous answers related to anger and emotional outbursts.
When encountering such an idiomatic clue, solvers should think of direct synonyms for the core action (losing temper, getting angry) or alternative phrases that convey the same meaning. The variety of possible answers reflects the richness of the English language in describing emotional states, making it a fun challenge for puzzle enthusiasts.
Understanding the nuances of these synonyms—from the quiet resentment implied by 'FUME' to the explosive nature of 'EXPLODE'—can help pinpoint the exact word needed for your puzzle, especially when combined with the number of letters required.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For idioms like "fly off the handle," consider not just the literal meaning but also the emotional intensity or specific action implied. Does it suggest a quiet anger or an explosive outburst?
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the possible answers with the given number of letters in the crossword grid. This is your most powerful filter for clues with multiple solutions.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck between several options for "fly off the handle," fill in any intersecting letters from clues you've already solved. The correct answer will be the one that fits perfectly with all crossing words.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: For verbal clues, brainstorm as many synonyms as possible. Sometimes, knowing the opposite can also help you arrive at the correct word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "fly off the handle" mean in a crossword context?
It's an idiom meaning to suddenly lose one's temper or become very angry. Crossword setters often use idiomatic expressions to lead solvers to synonyms or direct interpretations of the idiom.
Why are there multiple answers for "fly off the handle"?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers because different puzzles (or even different days of the same puzzle) might use the same clue to hint at different words of varying lengths or nuances, all fitting the general meaning.
How can I narrow down the correct answer when a clue has many possibilities?
The best way is to use the intersecting letters from other solved clues. The number of letters required for the answer also plays a crucial role, helping you eliminate words that don't fit the length.