coarse gravel crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "coarse gravel crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide the most common solutions, broken down by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "coarse gravel crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GRIT: Fine, hard, sharp particles of sand or stone, often used for abrasive purposes, but can also refer to small, coarse gravel or crushed rock, particularly for paths or driveways.
7 Letters
SHINGLE: Rough, loose, and usually rounded, water-worn gravel or stones, often found on beaches or in riverbeds. It specifically refers to coarse, naturally rounded stones.
BALLAST: Heavy material, such as coarse gravel, used to improve stability or provide weight in ships, hot air balloons, or as a foundation for railway beds, where its coarseness is key for drainage.
More About "coarse gravel crossword clue"
The term "coarse gravel" in crosswords often points to specific types of aggregate or natural formations. While gravel itself is a common material, the qualifier "coarse" helps narrow down the possibilities. This usually excludes fine sand or dust and directs you towards larger, more distinct pieces of rock.
Answers like SHINGLE are excellent fits because they precisely describe a type of coarse gravel found in a natural setting, typically shaped by water. BALLAST, on the other hand, describes coarse gravel used for a specific structural purpose, highlighting its functional property. GRIT represents a slightly finer but still notably coarse form, often used where abrasion or drainage is important.
Understanding the context suggested by the clue is key. Does it imply a natural landscape (beach, river)? Or a man-made application (railway, road, construction)? The nuanced meaning of "coarse gravel" can lead to different but equally valid crossword solutions, making it an interesting clue to decipher.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters provided for the answer. This is your most powerful filter for potential solutions.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: For a clue like "coarse gravel," brainstorm various words related to rocks, stones, construction materials, or even geological formations.
- Context is King: Pay attention to any other words in the clue. "Coarse gravel, perhaps on a beach" would strongly suggest SHINGLE, whereas "Coarse gravel for a railway" would lean towards BALLAST.
- Use Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in to narrow down possibilities for the "coarse gravel" clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for coarse gravel?
Common synonyms for coarse gravel often include 'shingle' (especially for beach or river stones), 'ballast' (for railway or ship use), 'grit' (for finer, sharper particles), and 'aggregate' (a broader term for construction materials like sand, gravel, and crushed stone).
How can I solve tricky crossword clues like 'coarse gravel'?
When faced with a clue like 'coarse gravel', consider the exact definition and common contexts. Think about its use (e.g., beaches, roads, railways) and related terms. Always check the number of letters required for the answer, as this is a crucial constraint. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific type or usage, such as 'beach stones' for SHINGLE.
Is 'aggregate' a suitable answer for 'coarse gravel' in crosswords?
While 'aggregate' is a broader term that includes coarse gravel, it can be a suitable answer if the letter count fits and the clue is generic enough to encompass a wider category of materials. However, more specific terms like 'shingle' or 'ballast' are often preferred if they fit the context better, as they more precisely describe 'coarse gravel'.