sieves crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "sieves crossword clue" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "sieves crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
RIDDLES: Devices for separating finer from coarser materials, often used for grain or sand.
SCREENS: Meshed devices, often flat, used to filter or separate.
9 Letters
STRAINERS: Utensils with perforated bottoms, used for separating solids from liquids.
COLANDERS: Perforated bowls used for draining off liquid from food, similar to a sieve.
More About "sieves crossword clue"
The term "sieve" refers to a device, often a mesh or perforated material, used for separating desired elements from undesired ones or for categorizing materials by size. In common parlance, we often think of kitchen strainers, but sieves have diverse applications ranging from scientific laboratories to construction sites, where they might be used to sort sand or gravel. This versatility makes "sieve" a popular concept for crossword clues, as it allows for a variety of related answers.
When "sieves" appears as a crossword clue, puzzle setters are typically looking for synonyms or specific types of filtering tools. The plural form is a key indicator, guiding you towards plural nouns like 'strainers' or 'colanders' rather than a singular item or a verb like 'sift'. Context from other intersecting words is crucial in narrowing down the possibilities.
Understanding the core function of a sieve – separation, filtering, or sorting – is your best approach to solving this kind of clue. Think about all the different tools and devices that perform this function in various contexts, from the culinary to the industrial, and you'll likely find the solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Plural/Singular: Always note if a clue is plural (like "sieves") or singular. This will directly influence whether your answer should be plural or singular, preventing common errors.
- Consider Function: For clues referring to tools or objects, think about their primary function. For "sieves," the function is separation or filtering, which leads to synonyms like 'strainers' or 'riddles'.
- Look at Cross-Clues: Don't try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. The letters you fill in from intersecting words are often the most valuable hints for cracking a tricky answer like "sieves."
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword clues use less common synonyms or more technical terms. If the obvious answer doesn't fit, consider broader applications or more specialized vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sieve' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'sieve' usually refers to a device used for filtering or straining, often leading to answers like STRAINER, COLANDER, RIDDLE, or SCREEN. It can also imply a verb like SIFT, but the plural 'sieves' typically points to the noun form of the tool.
Are there common synonyms for 'sieve' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms frequently appearing in crosswords for 'sieve' include RIDDLE, STRAINER, COLANDER, FILTER, and SCREEN. The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How can I get better at solving clues like 'sieves'?
To master clues like 'sieves', focus on synonyms and related concepts. Think about the function of a sieve (separating, filtering, straining) and common tools that perform these actions. Also, pay close attention to the number of letters required and any helpful intersecting letters you've already filled in.