How often does 'lock up' appear in crosswords?

'Lock up' or similar clues related to incarceration or restriction are very common in crosswords, often appearing in daily puzzles and larger grids due to the variety of synonyms available (jail, imprison, confine, detain, etc.).

Can 'lock up' refer to something other than people?

Yes, 'lock up' can also refer to securing an inanimate object or property, like 'lock up the house' or 'lock up your valuables'. In crosswords, context from surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme usually clarifies the intended meaning.

What's the best strategy for 'lock up' clues when stuck?

When stuck, first consider the letter count. Then, think of synonyms for 'lock up' that fit that length, such as JAIL, DETAIN, CONFINE, or IMPRISON. Also, check intersecting letters to narrow down possibilities. Sometimes, the clue might imply a more abstract 'locking up' like 'shut down' or 'freeze'.

lock up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the "lock up" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck quickly, no matter the word length.

Solutions for "lock up crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

JAIL: A common and straightforward answer for 'lock up', referring to placing someone in a prison or holding facility.

6 Letters

DETAIN: To hold someone in official custody, often temporarily, fitting the idea of 'locking up'.

SECURE: To fasten or 'lock up' something safely, or to make a place safe from entry or theft.

7 Letters

CONFINE: To restrict someone or something within an area, strongly relating to 'locking up' or limiting movement.

8 Letters

IMPRISON: To put or keep in prison or a place of detention, a direct synonym for 'lock up' in the context of people.

More About "lock up crossword clue"

The clue "lock up" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often testing a solver's vocabulary around themes of confinement, security, and detention. Its versatility means it can refer to people (e.g., in a jail), objects (e.g., securing valuables), or even abstract concepts (e.g., to 'lock up' information). This broad range makes it a favorite for setters, but it can sometimes be tricky for solvers.

When encountering "lock up," it's crucial to consider the number of letters required and any intersecting words. Answers like JAIL, DETAIN, CONFINE, and IMPRISON are common for human-related detention. However, don't overlook answers related to securing property like SECURE or CLOSE, or even terms like FREEZE (as in locking up a computer). The context provided by other clues in the puzzle is your best guide.

Understanding the nuances of "lock up" can significantly improve your crossword-solving skills. Pay attention to whether the clue hints at a permanent state or a temporary one, as this can differentiate between answers like IMPRISON and DETAIN. Crossword clues are all about precision, even when using common phrases.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider synonyms: For clues like "lock up," always brainstorm a wide array of synonyms. Think broadly about what "locking up" could mean in different contexts (people, objects, systems).
Check letter count carefully: The number of letters is your most important constraint. Write down potential answers and count their letters to ensure they fit the grid.
Look at intersecting words: If you're stuck, use the letters from intersecting words. Even one correct letter can unlock a difficult clue like "lock up."
Think abstractly: Sometimes, "lock up" might not mean literal physical confinement. It could refer to mental states (e.g., 'bottle up emotions') or system functions (e.g., 'system lock up').

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common answers for 'lock up' in crosswords?

The most common answers often include JAIL, DETAIN, CONFINE, and IMPRISON, especially when referring to people. For objects or systems, SECURE or CLOSE might be used.

How do I know if 'lock up' refers to a person or an object?

The context from other clues in the crossword is key. Look for clues that might hint at a theme (e.g., crime, security, home maintenance) or check the letters of intersecting words for confirmation.

Are there any tricky variations of 'lock up' I should be aware of?

Yes, sometimes "lock up" can be clued in a more abstract sense, like to "bottle up" emotions, or for a computer system to "freeze" or "seize up". Always consider the possibility of a non-literal interpretation.