ling crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "ling crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible solutions, meticulously organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "ling crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
EEL: A long, snake-like fish often appearing in crosswords. While not a specific ling, it can be a valid answer if the clue broadly hints at a similar aquatic creature or type of fish.
4 Letters
FISH: The most direct and common answer for 'ling' when referring to the animal. Ling is a species of marine fish, part of the cod family, known for its long, slender body.
7 Letters
HEATHER: Beyond its aquatic meaning, 'ling' is also a common name for a species of heather (Calluna vulgaris). This low-growing shrub is famous for its dense clusters of tiny, bell-shaped purple flowers found on moorlands.
More About "ling crossword clue"
"Ling" is a fascinating word in the world of crosswords due to its dual prominent meanings. Primarily, it refers to a type of long, slender marine food fish, scientifically known as Molva molva. This fish is a member of the cod family and is highly valued for its white, firm flesh, often found in North Atlantic waters.
However, many crossword enthusiasts quickly learn that "ling" also commonly refers to a plant: the common heather (Calluna vulgaris). This evergreen shrub is iconic for its widespread presence on moors and heathlands, especially in Scotland, where its purple blooms create stunning landscapes. Recognizing which "ling" the clue refers to often depends on the letter count and any additional descriptive words in the clue.
Understanding these distinct definitions is key to cracking "ling" clues. Whether it's about a deep-sea creature or a vibrant moorland plant, the context provided by the rest of the puzzle grid or the specific wording of the clue will guide you to the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Letter Count First: Always count the available spaces in the grid. For "ling," this immediately helps narrow down whether it's the 4-letter FISH or the 7-letter HEATHER, or even a shorter, more generic answer like EEL.
- Look for Context Clues: Pay close attention to any descriptive words in the clue. Terms like "Atlantic swimmer," "deep-sea catch," or "cod relative" point to the fish. Words such as "moorland plant," "Scottish bloom," or "heather species" clearly indicate the botanical meaning.
- Consider Alternative Meanings: Some words, like "ling," are homographs (words spelled the same but with different meanings). Always be aware of the less common or secondary definitions. If the primary ones don't fit, explore other possibilities that might seem tangential but are valid for crosswords (e.g., in a linguistic context, though less common for "ling").
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'ling' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'ling' most commonly refers to a type of marine fish (Molva molva) or a species of heather plant (Calluna vulgaris). Less frequently, depending on the clue's context, it could broadly relate to linguistics or a specific language.
How can I distinguish between 'fish' and 'plant' answers for 'ling'?
To distinguish, first check the letter count. Then, look for additional context in the clue itself. Phrases like 'North Atlantic catch,' 'marine dweller,' or 'long swimmer' point to the fish. Clues such as 'moorland shrub,' 'flowering plant,' or 'Scottish bloom' indicate the heather.
Are there other crossword clues related to 'ling'?
Yes, crossword clues for 'ling' might focus on specific characteristics or related terms. For the fish, clues could involve its habitat ('sea fish'), its appearance ('long fish'), or its culinary use ('food fish'). For the plant, expect clues like 'moorland shrub,' 'purple bloomer,' or 'honey source (for bees).''