tying up crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "tying up" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect solution. Let's untangle this clue together!
Solutions for "tying up crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BIND: To tie or fasten tightly; to constrain movement.
KNOT: To form a knot; to fasten with a knot.
MOOR: To secure a boat in a particular place, usually by tying it.
BUSY: Engaged in work or activity; often referring to having one's time tied up.
6 Letters
SECURE: To fasten or make firm, often with ropes or bonds.
DETAIN: To hold back or keep in custody, effectively tying up a person.
OCCUPY: To keep a person or their mind busy or engaged, thus tying up their time.
More About "tying up crossword clue"
The clue "tying up" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to answers that involve physical fasteners, but also metaphorical meanings. It can refer to the act of binding or securing something with ropes, strings, or other materials. Think of tying shoes, tying a boat to a dock, or tying up a package.
However, the clue can also delve into more abstract concepts. For instance, "tying up" can mean to occupy someone's time or resources, as in being "tied up with work." It might also imply the act of concluding or finishing something, like "tying up loose ends." Always consider the nuance and the number of letters available to pinpoint the precise meaning the puzzle setter intends.
Being aware of these different interpretations will give you a significant advantage when encountering this clue. Crossword setters love to play on words and multiple meanings, so keep an open mind and think about all possible scenarios related to the idea of "tying up."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For a clue like "tying up," think about words that mean the opposite (e.g., loosening, releasing) to sometimes spark an idea for the answer itself, or related concepts.
- Check intersecting letters: Always use the letters from intersecting words to confirm or narrow down your potential answers. This is often the most reliable way to solve ambiguous clues.
- Think figuratively and literally: As seen with "tying up," many clues have both literal and figurative interpretations. Try both angles if the direct meaning isn't yielding an answer.
- Look for context clues: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other solved clues can provide subtle hints about the nature of the "tying up" being referenced.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'tying up' typically imply in crossword puzzles?
'Tying up' in crosswords often points to actions of fastening, securing, binding, or restricting movement. It can also refer to occupying time or attention, or even detaining. The context of surrounding letters is key.
Are there common alternative interpretations for 'tying up'?
Yes, beyond physical fastening, 'tying up' can mean to keep busy (e.g., 'tying up loose ends'), to conclude or finalize something, or to restrict someone's freedom or movement. Always consider synonyms for all these interpretations.
How can I determine the correct length for 'tying up' solutions?
The correct length is determined by the number of blank squares in the puzzle grid. Once you have a potential answer in mind, count its letters and see if it fits the available spaces. Cross-referencing with intersecting words is also crucial.