chew crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "chew crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "chew crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GNAW: To bite or nibble persistently, often used for animals.
BITE: To cut or seize with the teeth, a very common synonym.
5 Letters
MUNCH: To eat steadily and audibly, often with enjoyment.
CHOMP: To chew noisily or vigorously, implying strong jaw action.
6 Letters
NIBBLE: To take small, delicate bites, implying caution or daintiness.
9 Letters
MASTICATE: A formal or scientific term for to chew thoroughly, less common in daily language but a valid crossword answer.
More About "chew crossword clue"
The act of "chewing" is fundamental to many aspects of life, from digestion to simply enjoying food. In crosswords, clues related to "chew" often seek direct synonyms, but sometimes they delve into the nuances of the action. For instance, a clue might hint at the sound of chewing (like MUNCH or CHOMP) or the manner of chewing (like NIBBLE for small bites, or GNAW for persistent biting, often associated with rodents).
Understanding the subtle differences between these words is key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple options fit the letter count. Consider the context of the clue: is it about an animal, a person, or perhaps a metaphorical usage? These details can guide you to the precise solution required by the puzzle setter.
Crossword puzzles frequently use common verbs, and "chew" falls squarely into this category. Its versatility allows it to appear in various forms, including past tense (chewed), present participle (chewing), or even as part of phrasal verbs (chew out, chew on, chew up). Always keep an eye out for these variations to successfully navigate the clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Before anything else, always confirm the exact number of squares available for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "chew," think broadly about all words that mean something similar, or even their opposites, as sometimes clues can be reverse-engineered.
- Look for Homophones and Puns: Crossword setters love wordplay. "Chew" could be a homophone for something else, or part of a pun. Be prepared to think outside the literal box.
- Utilize Cross-Referencing: Don't get stuck on one clue. If "chew" is giving you trouble, solve intersecting clues first. The letters you fill in from other answers will provide valuable hints for "chew."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'chew' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'chew' in crosswords often include GNAW, BITE, MUNCH, CHOMP, and NIBBLE. The specific answer will depend on the required letter count and the context provided by other intersecting clues in your puzzle.
How can the word 'chew' be used metaphorically in crosswords?
Beyond its literal meaning, 'chew' can sometimes refer to 'chew out' (reprimand), 'chew on' (think about), or 'chew up' (destroy). Clues might hint at these less direct meanings, requiring solvers to think creatively about idioms.
Is 'masticate' a common crossword answer for 'chew'?
While 'masticate' is a direct synonym for 'chew', its longer length (9 letters) makes it less common than shorter alternatives like GNAW or BITE. However, it can appear in puzzles with longer answer requirements, especially in more challenging crosswords.