Cryptic Crossword SolverWhat is a anagram clue?
An anagram clue asks you to rearrange a set of letters, usually called the fodder, to make the answer. A fair anagram clue also includes an indicator that tells you the letters are being mixed or disturbed.
Anagram clues
Anagram Cryptic Clues Explained.
Learn how anagram cryptic clues work, how to spot anagram indicators, and how to verify that the rearranged answer fits the definition.
How to spot one
Look for words that suggest disorder, movement, repair, damage, or rearrangement. Then identify a nearby word or phrase with exactly the right letters for the answer length.
Common indicators
Common mistakes
- Using too many or too few fodder letters.
- Treating any nearby word as fodder without an anagram indicator.
- Accepting a rearranged word that does not match the definition.
Solving steps for anagram clues.
Use this checklist before accepting a candidate answer.
Step 1
Find the possible definition at the beginning or end of the clue.
Step 2
Look for an indicator that suggests letters should be rearranged.
Step 3
Count the fodder letters and compare them with the enumeration.
Step 4
Rearrange the fodder into a word that matches the definition.
Step 5
Reject answers that fit the letters but do not fit the definition.
Reviewed anagram examples.
These solution pages show the clue type in context with answer, definition, wordplay, and verification steps.
high confidence4 letters
Mixed tone gives message (4)
An anagram solution where TONE is mixed to make NOTE, matching the definition message.
AnswerNOTE