Unlocking the Mystery: "Bring Up" or "Something Brought Up" Crossword Clue
Crossword puzzles, those tantalizing grids of letters, often present us with clues that require more than just a simple definition. The clue "Bring Up" or variations like "Something Brought Up" demand a deeper understanding of the word's multifaceted usage. This comprehensive guide will explore the various meanings and contexts of "bring up," helping you conquer this common crossword puzzle challenge.
Understanding the Multifaceted Nature of "Bring Up"
The phrase "bring up" isn't just about physically lifting something. Its meaning expands significantly depending on context. In crossword puzzles, this ambiguity is often exploited, leading to several possible answers. Let's examine the key interpretations:
1. To Raise (Physically):
This is the most literal meaning. If you see a clue about lifting a child, an object, or even a topic in a physical sense, then "LIFT," "RAISE," or even "HOIST" might be suitable answers. However, this is rarely the intended meaning in a crossword clue that simply says "Bring Up."
2. To Mention or Introduce a Topic:
This is arguably the most frequent meaning in crossword clues. "Bring up" in this sense means to initiate a discussion about a particular subject. The answers here could be various words representing a topic or issue:
- SUBJECT: A broad term applicable to any topic brought into discussion.
- ISSUE: Often used for a contentious or debatable subject.
- POINT: A specific argument or detail within a larger discussion.
- QUESTION: If the "brought up" element is a query.
- PROBLEM: If the topic is a difficulty or challenge.
- MATTER: A more formal and encompassing term.
- TOPIC: A common and versatile answer.
Examples of crossword clues using this meaning:
- "Bring up in conversation" - SUBJECT, TOPIC, ISSUE, POINT
- "What a teacher might bring up in class" - TOPIC, QUESTION, ISSUE, PROBLEM
- "Bring up at a meeting" - ISSUE, PROBLEM, POINT, MATTER
3. To Raise a Child:
This meaning refers to nurturing and caring for a child from infancy to adulthood. The answers here are often related to parenting or upbringing:
- NURTURE: Focuses on the care and development aspect.
- RAISE: A common and straightforward answer.
- REAR: A more formal or less common synonym of "raise."
- EDUCATE: If the clue emphasizes the learning aspect.
Examples of crossword clues using this meaning:
- "Bring up a family" - RAISE, REAR, NURTURE
- "How parents bring up their children" - RAISE, NURTURE, EDUCATE
4. To Evoke or Cause a Feeling or Reaction:
In this less common but still valid interpretation, "bring up" refers to causing a particular emotional response. The answer could be something that prompts a specific feeling:
- MEMORY: Something that brings back a past recollection.
- REMINDER: Something that recalls a forgotten fact or event.
- NOSTALGIA: If the feeling evoked is a sentimental longing for the past.
Examples of crossword clues using this meaning:
- "Bring up a painful memory" - MEMORY, REMINDER
- "Bring up feelings of longing" - NOSTALGIA, MEMORY
Strategic Approaches to Solving "Bring Up" Clues:
When encountering a "bring up" clue in a crossword puzzle, consider the following strategies:
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Look at the Crossing Letters: The letters already filled in the intersecting squares can significantly narrow down the possibilities.
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Consider the Crossword's Theme: If the puzzle has a specific theme (e.g., historical events, literature, science), the answer is likely related to it.
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Analyze the Clue's Wording: Pay close attention to adjectives or phrases modifying "bring up." These modifiers often provide valuable hints about the intended meaning.
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Think About Synonyms: Consider synonyms for "bring up" and see if any of them fit the available crossing letters.
"Something Brought Up" – Expanding the Possibilities:
The clue "something brought up" generally expands the range of potential answers. It suggests a noun representing a topic, issue, problem, or memory. The solver needs to deduce the specific context from the surrounding clues.
Examples of "Something Brought Up" Clue Solutions:
- ISSUE: A common and versatile option.
- PROBLEM: If the context suggests a difficulty.
- QUESTION: If it was a query raised in discussion.
- MEMORY: If the clue refers to a recalled experience.
- TOPIC: A general term applicable in many contexts.
Conclusion: Mastering the "Bring Up" Clue
The clue "bring up" or "something brought up" in crossword puzzles demands careful consideration of context and wordplay. By understanding the various meanings of "bring up" and employing strategic solving techniques, you can confidently unlock the answers and conquer even the most challenging crossword puzzles. Remember to analyze the crossing letters, consider the puzzle's theme, and focus on the specific wording of the clue to effectively deduce the correct response. With practice, these clues will become less daunting and more readily solvable.