cordials crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "cordials" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently.
Solutions for "cordials crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NIPS: Small drinks, often referring to a tiny amount of an alcoholic beverage. A common synonym for a quick drink, sometimes linking to 'cordials' as small portions.
5 Letters
DRAMS: Small measures of alcoholic spirits. This fits well when 'cordials' implies a small, potent drink.
7 Letters
ELIXIRS: A sweet, medicinal-tasting liquid, often containing alcohol. Historically, cordials were often considered elixirs for health or vitality, making this a fitting answer.
8 Letters
LIQUEURS: Sweet, alcoholic beverages, often flavored with fruits, herbs, or spices. This is the most direct and frequent crossword answer for 'cordials' when referring to a type of drink.
More About "cordials crossword clue"
The term "cordial" can have a few meanings, which makes it a versatile, yet sometimes tricky, crossword clue. In the context of beverages, it commonly refers to either a non-alcoholic fruit syrup designed to be diluted with water, or an alcoholic liqueur. Crossword setters typically lean towards the latter, especially in British-style crosswords, where 'cordial' is often used interchangeably with 'liqueur'—a sweetened, alcoholic spirit.
Understanding this dual meaning is key to solving the puzzle. When considering "cordials" for a crossword, think of rich, sweet, often digestif-style drinks. The clue might also sometimes refer to a general small measure of spirits, leading to answers like "nips" or "drams." Pay close attention to the number of letters required and any intersecting letters, as these will often guide you to the specific synonym the setter had in mind.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of letters the grid requires. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "cordials," helping you choose between a 4-letter, 5-letter, 7-letter, or 8-letter solution.
- Consider Synonyms and Context: Think broadly about what "cordials" could imply beyond just a drink. Could it refer to a feeling (warmth, sincerity) or a type of greeting? While less common for this clue, it’s a good general strategy. Also, look at other clues in the same puzzle for thematic hints.
- Check Intersecting Words: The most powerful tip! Letters you've already filled in from crossing words are invaluable. If you have an 'L' as the third letter for an 8-letter answer to "cordials," 'LIQUEURS' quickly becomes a prime candidate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'cordial' in the context of drinks and crosswords?
In the context of beverages, a 'cordial' can refer to a non-alcoholic fruit syrup used for mixing (common in the UK) or, more traditionally, a sweetened, often medicinal, alcoholic spirit or liqueur. For crosswords, the latter meaning – a sweet alcoholic drink like a liqueur or a small measure of spirits – is most often implied, seeking synonyms like 'liqueurs' or 'drams'.
Why might 'liqueurs' be a common answer for the clue 'cordials'?
'Liqueurs' is a very common synonym for 'cordials' because both terms describe a class of strong, sweet, often flavored alcoholic drinks typically consumed after meals or as a digestif. The historical use of 'cordial' as a restorative and invigorating drink aligns well with the rich, aromatic nature of liqueurs.
How do I choose the correct answer if multiple options fit 'cordials'?
The key is the number of letters required by the puzzle. If your grid needs an 8-letter word, 'LIQUEURS' is a strong candidate. For 5 letters, 'DRAMS' is probable, and for 4, 'NIPS'. Always check surrounding clues and already filled letters to narrow down the possibilities. The specific setter's style can also provide hints, as some setters have preferred words or styles.