goes bad crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "goes bad", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you solve your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "goes bad crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROTS: To undergo decomposition or decay, typically referring to organic matter.
5 Letters
TURNS: To change into an undesirable state, often indicating sourness or rancidity, as in milk or weather.
SOURS: To become acidic or unpleasant in taste, commonly applied to milk, or to become less pleasant, as in a mood or relationship.
6 Letters
SPOILS: To become unfit for consumption or use, often applied to food that has gone off.
DECAYS: To break down or decompose, losing original quality or structure. Can refer to organic material or a general decline.
7 Letters
EXPIRES: To reach the end of its period of validity or effectiveness, commonly used for food, medication, or contracts.
More About "goes bad crossword clue"
The clue "goes bad" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often pointing towards a state of deterioration, decay, or decline. While its most literal interpretation often involves food spoilage, the beauty and challenge of this clue lie in its versatility. Depending on the puzzle's theme or other intersecting clues, "goes bad" could refer to a variety of situations.
Beyond literal decomposition, this phrase can metaphorically describe a plan falling apart, a relationship deteriorating, or even a mood turning sour. Crossword setters love to play on these nuances, making it essential for solvers to consider all possibilities and look for contextual hints. Understanding the various synonyms for "goes bad" and their applications is key to cracking this clue, whether it's ROTS for fruit, SOURS for milk, or EXPIRES for an old warranty.
Being attentive to the number of letters required and the general tone of the puzzle will guide you to the precise answer. Crossword puzzles reward broad vocabulary and an awareness of everyday phrases with multiple meanings, and "goes bad" is a prime example of this.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Context: "Goes bad" can mean physical decay (food) or a negative turn in a situation (a plan, a mood). Always check other clues in the puzzle for hints about the overall theme or specific subject matter.
- Match Letter Counts Precisely: Once you have a potential answer in mind, count its letters carefully to ensure it fits the grid. This is a crucial step in eliminating incorrect solutions.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords often rely on synonyms. For "goes bad," think of words like decay, spoil, rot, turn, sour, expire, or even fail or worsen. This broadens your options.
- Review Common Crossword Tropes: Some words like ROTS, SPOILS, and DECAYS are very common in puzzles for this type of clue. Familiarize yourself with these frequent answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "goes bad" typically refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, "goes bad" most often refers to food or perishable items decaying (like milk souring or fruit rotting). However, it can also refer to situations, plans, or relationships deteriorating.
Are there common synonyms for "goes bad" used in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms include ROTS, SPOILS, DECAYS, TURNS, and SOURS. The specific context of the puzzle usually helps narrow down the correct answer.
How can I tell if "goes bad" refers to food or a situation in a crossword?
Look at the letter count, and check surrounding clues for hints. If another clue mentions dairy or produce, it's likely about food. If it's about a plan or a mood, it's more situational. The setter often provides subtle hints.