Determined About Crossword Clue

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Post on Jan 12, 2025

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Determined About Crossword Clue: Unlocking the Stubborn Solutions

The crossword clue "determined about" can be deceptively simple, yet its solutions often require a nuanced understanding of wordplay and the solver's knowledge base. This comprehensive guide delves into the various answers this clue can yield, exploring the underlying logic and providing strategies for tackling similar cryptic clues in the future. We will examine common solutions, explore the linguistic principles at play, and equip you with the tools to confidently solve this type of crossword puzzle clue.

Understanding the Clue's Structure:

The clue "determined about" operates on a fundamental level of word association and implication. The word "determined" suggests a state of being resolute, fixed, or unwavering. "About" acts as a preposition indicating proximity, context, or relation. The challenge lies in finding a word or phrase that captures this relationship, often involving wordplay or a cleverly hidden definition.

Common Solutions and Their Logic:

Several words can fit this crossword clue depending on the number of letters required and the overall crossword puzzle's theme. Here are some examples with explanations:

• SET ON: This is a common and highly likely solution. "Set" implies being determined or fixed, while "on" suggests the focus or object of that determination. The phrase "set on" directly conveys the meaning of being determined about something.

• RESOLUTE: This answer works as a direct synonym for "determined." The clue is essentially a concise definition clue, with "about" subtly included within the implied context.

• FIXED ON: Similar to "set on," "fixed on" implies a firm and unwavering focus, directly conveying the meaning of being determined about a particular subject.

• DECIDED ON: This solution represents the outcome of determination – the final decision made after careful consideration. "About" in this case hints at the subject matter of the decision.

• COMMITED TO: This option suggests a strong dedication or pledge, which is a natural consequence of being determined about something. The "to" preposition acts similarly to "about" in implying the object of the commitment.

Wordplay and Cryptic Clues:

The clue "determined about" can also be part of a cryptic crossword clue, introducing layers of complexity. Here's how it might appear in a cryptic setting:

• "Determined about cake, ultimately rich (7)": This clue incorporates a hidden word (a cryptic definition) within a description. "Cake, ultimately" points to the final letter of "cake," which is "E." "Rich" is a synonym for "determined." Therefore, the solution is "RESOLUTE" (RESOL + U + TE).

Strategies for Solving "Determined About" Clues:

1. Consider synonyms: Explore words synonymous with "determined," such as resolute, decided, steadfast, unwavering, etc.

2. Analyze the word "about": Understand the various ways "about" can modify the relationship between the words. It might indicate proximity, topic, or the target of the determination.

3. Look for wordplay: Check for anagrams, hidden words, or other cryptic components within the clue.

4. Consider the letter count: The number of letters required for the solution is a crucial constraint, narrowing down the possibilities.

5. Examine the surrounding clues: The theme and context of the surrounding clues can provide valuable hints and eliminate unlikely solutions.

6. Use a crossword solver (with caution): Online crossword solvers can suggest possible answers, but they should be used to confirm your own deductions, not as a primary problem-solving tool.

Expanding Your Crossword Vocabulary:

To improve your ability to solve clues like "determined about," actively expand your vocabulary, paying attention to synonyms and related words. Reading widely, using a thesaurus, and studying word origins can significantly enhance your crossword skills.

Advanced Techniques and Variations:

More sophisticated crossword puzzles may use more nuanced phrasing. For example, they might incorporate phrases like:

• "Firmly resolved about": This carries the same essential meaning as "determined about," requiring a similar line of thinking.
• "Unwavering regarding": This clue shifts the phrasing but maintains the core concept of unwavering determination.

Conclusion:

The crossword clue "determined about" demands a multifaceted approach. By understanding the structural components of the clue, exploring various synonyms, considering potential wordplay, and systematically eliminating incorrect options, you can successfully conquer this seemingly simple yet often challenging crossword puzzle clue. Remember that consistent practice and a growing vocabulary are your greatest allies in mastering the art of crossword solving.