recoiled from crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "recoiled from crossword," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "recoiled from crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WINCE: To make a slight, involuntary grimace or shrinking movement, as from pain or distress.
6 Letters
SHRANK: To draw back or become smaller, often due to an unpleasant stimulus or fear.
8 Letters
BLANCHED: Turned pale with shock or fear, a physical reaction similar to recoiling from something unpleasant.
8 Letters
FLINCHED: Made a quick, nervous movement as an instinctive reaction to fear, pain, or surprise, directly implying a recoil.
More About "recoiled from crossword"
The clue "recoiled from" often points to a sudden, involuntary movement away from something, typically prompted by fear, aversion, or surprise. In crossword puzzles, these types of clues test your vocabulary for reactions and emotional responses. The context of surrounding clues (e.g., a past-tense verb for 'recoiled from' will often lead to a past-tense answer) is crucial for pinpointing the correct solution.
Words like SHRANK, WINCE, FLINCHED, and BLANCHED all capture different nuances of the act of recoiling. 'SHRANK' implies a drawing back or reduction, 'WINCE' is a slight, pained reaction, 'FLINCHED' is a more pronounced nervous jerk, and 'BLANCHED' refers specifically to turning pale from shock or fear. Understanding these subtle differences can help you differentiate between potential answers when you have intersecting letters.
When you encounter a clue like this, consider not just the primary meaning but also any figurative or secondary meanings. Crossword setters love to play with words, so always be prepared for a twist. Thinking about the synonyms and antonyms for 'recoil' can also broaden your pool of potential answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Tense: If the clue is in the past tense ("recoiled from"), your answer will almost certainly be in the past tense (e.g., SHRANK, FLINCHED, BLANCHED). This is a common and vital crossword rule.
- Consider Subtle Meanings: Words like "recoiled" can have various related meanings. Think about all the ways a person or object might "recoil" – physically, emotionally, or even metaphorically.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters from crossing words to narrow down your options. Even one correct letter can eliminate many possibilities and confirm the right answer.
- Expand Your Reaction Vocabulary: Pay special attention to words that describe human reactions and emotions. This category of clues is very common in crosswords, and a strong vocabulary here will serve you well.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "recoiled from" mean in crossword puzzles?
In crosswords, "recoiled from" typically refers to a sudden movement away from something, often due to fear, disgust, or shock. It implies a physical or emotional withdrawal.
Are there common synonyms for "recoiled from" that often appear in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms or related actions include SHRANK, WINCE, FLINCHED, BLANCHED, RECOIL, SHRUGGED, or even phrases indicating aversion. The specific answer depends on the letter count and other intersecting clues.
How can I improve my ability to solve "reaction" type clues like "recoiled from"?
To improve, focus on building your vocabulary related to human emotions and physical reactions. Practice recognizing synonyms and antonyms for these words, and pay attention to verb tenses (e.g., past tense 'recoiled' suggests past tense answers like 'SHRANK' or 'FLINCHED'). Regularly solving puzzles and reviewing new words you encounter will also help significantly.