distinctive smell crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with "distinctive smell crossword clue"? You've landed on the right page! We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and finish your puzzle.
Solutions for "distinctive smell crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ODOR: A distinctive smell, often used broadly for any strong or noticeable scent, whether pleasant or unpleasant.
5 Letters
AROMA: Typically refers to a pleasant or agreeable distinctive smell, often associated with food, spices, or coffee.
SCENT: A general term for a distinctive smell, often pleasant, like a fragrance from flowers or perfume.
7 Letters
BOUQUET: A distinctive and characteristic fragrance, especially of wine, perfume, or flowers, often implying a complex blend of smells.
9 Letters
FRAGRANCE: A pleasant or sweet distinctive smell, commonly used for perfumes, flowers, or scented products.
More About "distinctive smell crossword clue"
The clue "distinctive smell" is a classic in crosswords because it's open to various interpretations, depending on the desired letter count and the overall theme of the puzzle. While answers like AROMA, ODOR, and SCENT are common, their precise meaning can vary. AROMA usually implies a pleasant, specific scent (e.g., coffee aroma), whereas ODOR can be neutral or negative (e.g., a strange odor). SCENT often refers to natural, usually pleasant, smells, or an animal's ability to track by smell.
Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they allow for multiple correct answers based on context and letter length. Always consider the surrounding clues and any given letters you already have, as they can quickly eliminate possibilities. Think about the source of the smell – is it natural, artificial, food-related, or something else entirely? This can help you narrow down whether the setter is looking for a general term or a more specific one like BOUQUET or FRAGRANCE.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "distinctive smell," consider if the context suggests a pleasant (AROMA, FRAGRANCE) or unpleasant (ODOR, STENCH) scent. The mood of the clue can often lead you to the right answer.
- Check Letter Count First: Always use the number of letters required as your primary filter. This immediately narrows down your options for words like 'odor' (4), 'aroma' (5), and 'bouquet' (7).
- Look for Crossings: If you're stuck between a few possibilities, wait for crossing words to fill in. A single confirmed letter can often reveal the correct "distinctive smell" answer you need.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a smell "distinctive" in crosswords?
In crosswords, a 'distinctive smell' often implies a unique or easily recognizable characteristic that sets it apart from general scents. Crossword setters might use context clues to hint at specific types of distinctive smells, such as those associated with food, nature, or even abstract concepts, guiding you to a more precise answer.
How do I choose between similar answers like AROMA, ODOR, and SCENT?
The letter count is your primary guide. If multiple words fit the length, look at other crossing words for definitive letters. Also, consider the nuance of the clue: a 'pleasant distinctive smell' leans towards AROMA or FRAGRANCE, while an 'unpleasant distinctive smell' suggests ODOR or STENCH. The surrounding clues can often provide critical context.
Are there common wordplay elements related to "smell" clues?
Yes, sometimes 'smell' might refer to an animal's sense of smell, or be part of an idiom like 'smells fishy' or 'smells a rat.' Pay close attention to any unusual phrasing, puns, or a lack of definition in the clue, which might hint at wordplay rather than a direct synonym.