foul smell crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "foul smell" in your crossword puzzle, you've landed on the perfect page. We've compiled all possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease and confidence. Let's banish that puzzle-solving funk!
Solutions for "foul smell crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ODOR: A distinctive smell, often unpleasant when used in this context.
REEK: To smell strongly and unpleasantly, or a strong, unpleasant smell itself.
5 Letters
STINK: A strong, unpleasant smell, typically from decaying matter or something offensive.
FETOR: A very strong and offensive smell, often associated with decay or disease.
6 Letters
MIASMA: An unpleasant or unhealthy smell or vapor, often thought to come from swamps or decaying matter.
7 Letters
MALODOR: A very unpleasant smell; a stench.
More About "foul smell crossword clue"
"Foul smell" is a classic crossword clue that appears frequently due to the rich vocabulary English offers for unpleasant aromas. These clues often test your ability to recall synonyms that convey intensity, source, or general unpleasantness. Common answers range from simple terms like ODOR or REEK to more specific or archaic words like FETOR or MIASMA.
When encountering this clue, consider the general tone of the puzzle and the length of the required answer. Sometimes, the clue might be part of a larger theme related to senses, hygiene, or even chemistry. Paying attention to these subtle cues can help you pinpoint the exact word the setter is looking for, especially if multiple answers for 'foul smell' fit the letter count.
Remember, the world of crosswords loves precision. While "stink" and "reek" both mean a foul smell, their usage can vary slightly. 'Stink' is often a noun or verb for the smell itself, while 'reek' more strongly emphasizes the act of emitting a powerful, unpleasant odor. Understanding these nuances can give you an edge in solving even the trickiest puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Always Check Letter Count First: This is your primary filter. Eliminate any words that don't match the required length immediately.
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: Think beyond the most obvious. For "foul smell," words describing a stench, an aroma (often used ironically), or even a specific type of bad smell (e.g., from decay) could be valid.
- Look for Crossing Letters: The most crucial tip! Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate potential answers. This is often the quickest way to solve ambiguities.
- Think About Context: Does the puzzle have a theme? Is it a particularly tricky or pun-filled puzzle? This can sometimes hint at a more obscure or witty answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'foul smell' a common crossword clue?
Clues related to 'foul smell' are common because there are many short, distinct synonyms (like ODOR, REEK, STINK, FETOR) that fit various letter counts, making them versatile for crossword setters.
How can I determine the correct 'foul smell' answer when multiple options exist?
To find the right answer, always check the number of letters required by the grid. Then, use any already filled-in crossing letters to narrow down the possibilities. Sometimes, the specific nuance of the word (e.g., a 'reek' vs. a general 'odor') can also give a hint.
Are there specific types of 'foul smell' clues to look out for?
Yes, some clues might imply a specific source, like 'foul smell from a drain' or 'foul smell of decay,' which could lead to more precise answers such as FETOR (for decay) or specific terms related to the source. Pay attention to any additional descriptors in the clue.