flow back crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "flow back," organized by their letter count to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "flow back crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
EBB: To recede, especially of the tide or a feeling. Often used in relation to the sea or a decline.
6 Letters
RECEDE: To move back or further away from a previous position, as water from a shore or a hairline.
RETURN: To go or come back to a place, person, or state. Implies a movement to a former position.
7 Letters
RETREAT: To move back or withdraw, especially from a difficult or dangerous situation, or from a position previously occupied.
More About "flow back crossword clue"
"Flow back" is a common and versatile clue in crosswords, often related to the movement of liquids, but also used metaphorically. The most immediate association is with the tide, where the water literally "flows back" from the shore, known as the ebb tide. This makes EBB a very frequent answer for this clue, especially in shorter word length slots.
However, the clue's meaning can extend beyond the literal movement of water. It can refer to a general withdrawal or recession, as seen with answers like RECEDE or RETREAT. In some contexts, it might even imply a restoration to a previous state, hence words like RETURN. Understanding the subtle nuances and common crossword patterns for this phrase can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
Always consider the context provided by other words in the clue, or the letters you already have, to pinpoint the exact meaning the puzzle setter intends. Is it about water, a general movement, or a return to a former state?
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The length of the answer is your first critical hint. For "flow back," a 3-letter slot almost certainly points to EBB, while longer slots open up options like RECEDE or RETREAT.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that mean the opposite of 'flow' (e.g., dam, stop) or synonyms for 'back' (e.g., reverse, withdraw). This can sometimes spark lateral thinking for less direct answers.
- Look for Context Clues: Does the clue mention "tide," "ocean," "army," or "hairline"? These additional words will heavily influence whether the answer is EBB, RETREAT, or RECEDE.
- Check for Metaphorical Meanings: Crossword setters love to use words in their literal and figurative senses. "Flow back" might not always refer to water; it could imply a return of feelings, memories, or even financial assets.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'flow back' typically refer to in crosswords?
'Flow back' usually refers to water or tides moving away, or a general withdrawal. Common answers include EBB, RECEDE, or RETREAT, often found in clues related to oceans, rivers, or even emotional states.
How can I distinguish between 'RECEDE' and 'RETURN' when both mean 'flow back'?
Context is key. 'RECEDE' implies moving back from an advanced position, often diminishing. 'RETURN' suggests coming back to an original or previous state or place. Look for surrounding words in the clue for hints, like 'tide' for RECEDE or 'to its source' for RETURN.
Are there any common misinterpretations of 'flow back' in crosswords?
Sometimes solvers might confuse 'flow back' with 'drain' or 'reverse.' While related, 'flow back' specifically implies a movement against a previous flow or an ebb. Always consider synonyms for withdrawal or regression in the context of fluids or movement.