Moved by degrees (9) Crossword Clue
Answer: RATCHETED
The crossword clue Moved by degrees (9) has the answer RATCHETED. Ratcheted refers to a gradual, step-by-step increase or movement, often used to describe a process that progresses incrementally, such as a mechanism that moves in one direction with each click or adjustment. This term is commonly used to describe situations where things are moved or intensified slowly, usually in a controlled manner.
Understanding the Crossword Clue: Moved by Degrees
- RATCHETED is the precise nine-letter answer for this mechanical crossword clue, describing movement that occurs in incremental steps or stages rather than continuously.
- When something is ratcheted, it moves by degrees through a series of controlled, measured advances, much like the clicking mechanism of a ratchet tool that advances one notch at a time.
- This clue exemplifies how crossword constructors use mechanical terminology to create elegant wordplay.
- The concept of ratcheting implies both physical movement and gradual progression, making it applicable to various contexts from tools to policy changes.
Crossword Strategy and Related Answers
- When encountering movement-themed clues requiring nine letters, consider alternatives like GRADUATED (moved in steps), ESCALATED (increased by degrees), or INCREMENTED (advanced by units).
- However, RATCHETED uniquely captures the mechanical precision implied by "moved by degrees" and fits the specific letter count perfectly.
- Pay attention to crossing letters, particularly the distinctive TCH combination in positions 3-5, which is relatively uncommon in English words.
- The -ED ending confirms this as a past tense verb, helping eliminate other possible interpretations of the clue.
Related Crossword Variations and Synonyms
- Similar clues might use phrases like "gradually increased," "stepped up incrementally," or "advanced by stages," all potentially leading to RATCHETED.
- Understanding the mechanical metaphor helps distinguish this answer from broader terms like "progressed" or "advanced" that don't capture the specific incremental nature.
- The -ED ending indicates past tense action, which crossword constructors often use to create more specific and answerable clues
- This grammatical structure helps narrow down possible answers when combined with the letter count and crossing patterns.
Moved by degrees (9) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is RATCHETED always the answer for "moved by degrees" clues?
A: While RATCHETED perfectly fits this nine-letter clue, constructors might occasionally use GRADUATED or ESCALATED depending on context. Always check crossing letters to confirm the specific answer intended.
Q: What makes ratcheted movement different from regular movement?
A: Ratcheted movement occurs in discrete, controlled steps with positive stops at each position, unlike continuous movement. This creates the characteristic clicking action and prevents backward slippage under load.
Q: Could this clue have alternative crossword answers?
A: The nine-letter requirement and mechanical context strongly favor RATCHETED. ESCALATED (9 letters) could work in some contexts, but RATCHETED better captures the precise, mechanical "by degrees" aspect of the clue.
Q: How can I remember this answer for future puzzles?
A: Think of a ratchet wrench clicking as it moves - each click represents one degree of movement. The word combines "ratchet" (the tool) with "-ed" (past tense), making it memorable once you connect the mechanical action.
Q: Are there other common clues leading to RATCHETED?
A: Yes! You might see "Advanced incrementally," "Moved notch by notch," "Escalated gradually," or "Increased step by step" as alternative clues for the same answer.
