crossword clue sour – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the crossword clue "sour". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just looking to verify your solution, we've got you covered with answers across various letter counts.
Solutions for "crossword clue sour" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OFF: Often used to describe food that has gone bad or turned sour.
4 Letters
ACID: A chemical property that results in a sour taste, such as in lemons or vinegar.
TART: A common synonym for sour, particularly in relation to taste.
5 Letters
ACERB: Describes something sour or bitter in taste, or a harsh, cutting tone.
6 Letters
BITTER: While distinct from sour, bitter is often associated with sharp, unpleasant tastes and can be a crossword answer for similar clues.
LEMONY: Descriptive of something tasting or smelling like a lemon, which is inherently sour.
7 Letters
VINEGAR: A common household liquid known for its distinctly sour taste and pungent smell.
More About "crossword clue sour"
The term "sour" is incredibly versatile in the English language, which makes it a frequent and sometimes challenging crossword clue. Its primary meaning relates to taste, describing the sharp, pungent flavor associated with acids, like those found in citrus fruits or fermented products such as vinegar or yogurt. This is often the most straightforward interpretation in puzzles.
However, "sour" also extends metaphorically to describe moods or situations. A "sour" disposition refers to someone who is grumpy, irritable, or ill-tempered. A "sour" note in music indicates a wrong or unpleasant sound, while a "sour" deal implies something that has gone wrong or turned out unfavorably. Crossword setters frequently leverage these nuanced meanings to create more challenging clues, requiring solvers to consider the broader context.
When encountering "sour" in a crossword, it's crucial to consider the word count and any accompanying words in the clue. A short answer might point to a direct taste descriptor, while longer answers could delve into moods, processes (like milk turning sour), or even metaphorical uses. Always keep an open mind to the various ways this seemingly simple word can be interpreted.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "sour," always think beyond the most obvious definition. Could it refer to a taste, a mood, or a process (like food spoiling)?
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your biggest hint. A 3-letter answer for "sour" might be 'OFF', while a 7-letter one could be 'VINEGAR' or 'CRABBY'.
- Look at Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to narrow down possibilities for the "sour" clue.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes, knowing what a word ISN'T can help. Also, think of common synonyms that fit various contexts (taste vs. mood).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sour' typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'sour' most commonly refers to a taste (like lemon or vinegar), but it can also refer to a mood (like 'grumpy' or 'sullen'), or something that has gone bad (like milk turning 'off'). Context is key!
Are there common synonyms for 'sour' in crossword puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms often include TART, ACID, BITTER (though distinct, often related), and sometimes words describing bad temper like CROSS or CRABBY, depending on the clue's nuance.
How can I distinguish between taste and mood interpretations of 'sour'?
Look for accompanying words in the clue. If it says 'sour fruit' or 'sour liquid', it's likely taste. If it's 'sour disposition' or 'sour mood', it's about temperament. The number of letters can also guide you towards shorter taste-related words or longer mood-related ones.