crossword clue mine entrance – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you will find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "crossword clue mine entrance", carefully organized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the context and enhance your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue mine entrance" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ADIT: A horizontal or nearly horizontal passage driven from the surface into a mine, often used for drainage or access.
5 Letters
SHAFT: A vertical or steeply inclined passage, usually sunk from the surface, providing access to a mine.
6 Letters
PORTAL: A general term for an entrance, gate, or opening, which can sometimes refer to a mine's opening.
7 Letters
OPENING: A broad term for a gap or unclosed space, applicable to any form of entrance, including a mine entrance.
More About "crossword clue mine entrance"
The term "mine entrance" can evoke various images, from ancient tunnels dug by hand to modern, industrial access points. In crosswords, clues like this often test your knowledge of specific mining terminology. Words like ADIT and SHAFT are precise terms with distinct meanings in the mining world, reflecting different types of access to subterranean workings.
An ADIT is particularly common in old or smaller mines, especially those located in hilly or mountainous terrain, allowing for natural drainage. SHAFTs are more typical of deep-level mining, requiring advanced engineering for hoisting materials and personnel. Understanding these nuances can not only help you solve the current puzzle but also enrich your general vocabulary.
Sometimes, a clue might be more general, leading to answers like PORTAL or OPENING. The context of the surrounding letters in your crossword puzzle is always the ultimate determinant for which answer is correct. Always consider the length of the required word and any already filled-in letters.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Word Length: Always check the number of letters required. This is the single most important piece of information for narrowing down potential answers, especially for clues with multiple synonyms like "mine entrance".
- Look for Specificity: Pay attention to whether the clue is general ("opening") or very specific ("horizontal passage"). This helps you decide between common words and technical terms (like ADIT vs. SHAFT).
- Cross-Reference: Use intersecting letters from other clues to confirm or eliminate possibilities. If you have an 'A' in the second spot, 'ADIT' becomes a strong candidate.
- Think Synonyms & Homophones: Crossword constructors love to use synonyms or words that sound alike. If an initial answer doesn't fit, consider its close synonyms or even words that might be puns on the clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an 'adit' and a 'shaft' in mining?
An adit is typically a horizontal or near-horizontal passage driven into a mine from the side of a hill or mountain, often used for drainage or access. A shaft, conversely, is a vertical or steeply inclined passage, usually sunk from the surface downwards, primarily for hoisting ore, rock, or personnel.
How can I get better at solving crossword clues related to specific fields like mining?
To improve with specialized clues, try to expand your general knowledge by reading broadly, especially about common industries, history, and science. Pay attention to common crossword constructor tricks like synonyms, homophones, or words with multiple meanings. Cross-referencing with other clues in the puzzle can also provide valuable letters.
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Multiple answers for a single clue usually occur because words have synonyms, different contexts, or varying lengths that could fit the same general description. The correct answer in a crossword puzzle is always determined by the intersecting letters from other clues, making it crucial to solve those first to narrow down options.