harden crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "harden" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "harden crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SET: To become firm or solid, as in "the concrete will set quickly."
4 Letters
FIRM: To become solid or less yielding, often used in cooking or construction.
5 Letters
STEEL: To make strong or tough, particularly in terms of one's resolve or nerves.
7 Letters
TOUGHEN: To make or become strong or resilient, often referring to a person's character or a material's durability.
8 Letters
SOLIDIFY: To make or become solid or strong, referring to a transition from liquid to solid, or making an idea concrete.
More About "harden crossword clue"
The word "harden" is a fascinating and versatile term that appears frequently in crosswords due to its multiple meanings and contexts. From the physical process of materials becoming solid, like concrete setting or metal being treated, to the metaphorical sense of a person's resolve becoming stronger or emotions becoming less sensitive, "harden" covers a wide semantic range. This versatility is precisely what makes it a challenging yet common crossword clue.
When solving "harden," it's crucial to consider the broader context of the puzzle. Is it a science-themed clue, hinting at metallurgy or chemistry? Or is it a psychological clue, referring to building resilience? The surrounding words and the specific puzzle constructor's style can often guide you to the correct answer among the many synonyms like 'set', 'firm', 'steel', 'toughen', or 'solidify'.
Understanding these nuances is key to mastering such clues. By categorizing answers by length and providing concise explanations, Crosswordanswer.co.uk aims to demystify these complex clues, making your crossword solving experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- **Consider Synonyms and Context:** 'Harden' has many synonyms, each fitting a slightly different context. Think about whether the clue relates to materials, resolve, or a process, and match it to a suitable synonym.
- **Check Letter Count First:** Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This is the quickest way to narrow down the possibilities when multiple words fit the meaning.
- **Look for Intersecting Letters:** Use letters from already-solved intersecting words to quickly confirm or eliminate potential answers for "harden." This is a fundamental crossword strategy.
- **Think About Phrasal Verbs or Idioms:** Sometimes, the clue might hint at a phrasal verb or an idiom where "harden" is part of a larger expression, expanding the range of possible answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "harden" typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'harden' often refers to making something physically firm, becoming emotionally resilient, or making a substance solidify, such as concrete or gel.
Why are there so many answers for "harden"?
'Harden' is a versatile verb with numerous synonyms depending on the specific context. For instance, 'set' for jelly, 'toughen' for a person, or 'solidify' for a liquid, all fall under the umbrella of 'harden', leading to a wide range of possible answers in crosswords.
How do I choose the correct answer if there are multiple options for "harden"?
To pick the right answer, first check the number of letters required for the answer block. Then, use intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved. The broader theme or context of the crossword puzzle might also provide subtle hints about the intended meaning of 'harden'.