blow crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "blow", you've come to the right place. This versatile word can have many meanings in crosswords, and we've gathered all the common solutions to help you complete your puzzle. Explore the answers below, sorted by letter count for easy navigation.
Solutions for "blow crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PUFF: To exhale forcefully; a short, sudden gust of wind. Often used for light, airy exhalations.
WAFT: To be carried lightly by wind or air. Implies a gentle movement, like a scent wafting through the air.
GALE: A very strong wind. Refers to a more intense natural air movement.
5 Letters
BLAST: A strong gust of wind, an explosion, or to make a loud noise. Can imply force or sound.
WHIFF: A slight gust or scent; to hit lightly (as in 'whiff a shot'). Can refer to a small amount of air or a missed strike.
6 Letters
STRIKE: To hit forcefully (as in 'blow a punch'). This definition focuses on the impact aspect of 'blow'.
BREEZE: A gentle wind. A lighter, more pleasant form of air movement.
More About "blow crossword clue"
The clue "blow" is a classic example of a word with multiple meanings that crossword setters love to use. Its polysemous nature means it can refer to a wide range of concepts, from the movement of air to a physical impact, or even a sudden event. This makes it a challenging but rewarding clue to solve, as you must consider the broader context of the puzzle.
When encountering "blow" in a crossword, always consider its various definitions. Could it be related to wind (like a gale or a breeze), an action with air (like to puff or inflate), or perhaps a sudden forceful hit (like a strike)? The surrounding letters and the length of the required answer are crucial hints that guide you to the correct solution.
Beyond the literal, "blow" also appears in many idiomatic expressions. "Blow up" could mean to explode, to inflate, or to become angry. "Blow off" might mean to dismiss or to skip. These figurative uses are common in more advanced crosswords, adding another layer of complexity. Mastering these nuances will significantly improve your solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your first and most vital clue. A 4-letter answer for "blow" might lead you to "PUFF" or "GALE," while a 6-letter answer could be "STRIKE" or "BREEZE."
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These are often the most reliable way to confirm or eliminate potential answers for "blow."
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Since "blow" is so versatile, mentally cycle through its various definitions: wind, impact, a sudden event, or even an action. Don't get fixated on just one interpretation.
- Think of Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: If the direct meanings don't fit, think of common phrases or phrasal verbs that include "blow" (e.g., blow up, blow off, blow over).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the clue 'blow' have so many different answers?
The word 'blow' is highly polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. In crosswords, setters exploit this versatility. It can refer to air movement (like a 'breeze' or 'gale'), a sudden impact (a 'strike'), or even a process (like 'blow up' a balloon'). Context from surrounding letters is key to narrowing it down.
How can I distinguish between 'blow' meaning wind and 'blow' meaning impact?
Look at the number of letters required and any intersecting letters. If the answer is short like 'GALE' or 'PUFF', it likely refers to wind. Longer answers like 'STRIKE' or 'EXPLODE' might indicate impact or a more complex action. Also, consider the constructor's style – some prefer straightforward definitions, others are more lateral.
Are there common tricks crossword setters use with the clue 'blow'?
Yes, setters often play on its dual nature as a noun (e.g., 'a blow to the head') and a verb (e.g., 'to blow out candles'). They might also hint at idiomatic phrases like 'blow up' (explode, get angry, inflate), 'blow off' (dismiss, skip), or 'blow over' (pass). Always consider both literal and figurative meanings.