precipitated crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "precipitated", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "precipitated crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
CAUSED: A direct synonym for making something happen, aligning with one interpretation of precipitated.
HASTED: An older term for hurried or caused to happen quickly, often used in crosswords for 'precipitated' in the sense of speeding something up.
7 Letters
SPURRED: To urge on or stimulate, which can lead to something happening suddenly, much like precipitating an event.
SETTLED: In a chemical context, 'precipitated' refers to a solid separating from a solution and settling, making this a fitting answer for certain clues.
9 Letters
TRIGGERED: Meaning 'caused to happen suddenly', fitting the primary sense of precipitated.
More About "precipitated crossword clue"
The word "precipitated" can be a tricky one in crosswords because of its dual meanings. Primarily, it means to cause an event or situation (especially a bad one) to happen suddenly, unexpectedly, or prematurely, as in "the argument precipitated a crisis." This is the sense most commonly found in general crosswords, where synonyms like 'caused', 'triggered', or 'sparked' would fit.
However, "precipitated" also has a specific scientific meaning, referring to the process where a substance is caused to separate from a solution as a solid. This chemical definition might appear in more specialized or themed crosswords. Always consider the puzzle's theme or other clues if you suspect a scientific context.
Another nuance is the sense of rushing or hurrying, as in 'precipitated oneself into action'. While less common, this can lead to answers like 'hasted' (an archaic form of 'hurried'), which is a classic crossword setter's trick.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: As with "precipitated," many words have more than one meaning. Always think about all possible interpretations, including literal, figurative, and even archaic uses.
- Check Letter Count First: Before diving deep into synonyms, identify answers that match the exact number of letters required. This instantly narrows down your options.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it fits with words from other clues. If letters align, you're likely on the right track.
- Think About Context: Is it a themed puzzle? Does the overall tone of the crossword lean towards science, literature, or everyday language? This can guide you towards the most appropriate synonym for a multi-faceted clue like "precipitated."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "precipitated" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'precipitated' most commonly refers to causing something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly (e.g., triggered, caused). However, it can also relate to the chemical process where a substance settles out of a solution (e.g., settled, formed), so always consider the broader context of the puzzle.
How can I determine the correct answer for 'precipitated' from multiple options?
To find the best fit, first check the letter count. Then, look at intersecting words to confirm letters. Finally, consider if the clue has a subtle scientific or archaic connotation that might lead to a less common synonym like 'HASTED' or 'SETTLED' (in the chemical sense).
Are there common tricks related to 'precipitated' clues?
Yes, be aware of the dual nature of 'precipitated' (to cause/hasten vs. to settle chemically). Crossword setters often play on this ambiguity. Also, 'precipitated' can imply 'rushed' or 'hastened', leading to answers like 'HASTED' which is a classic crossword word often appearing for 'hurried' or 'sped up'.