sift crossword clue – All Crossword Answers & Solutions
Welcome! You're looking for help with the crossword clue "sift". This page provides all known answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Let's find your solution!
Solutions for "sift crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SIFT: To separate out or analyze something thoroughly, often by passing it through a sieve or filter.
BOLT: To sift flour, especially through a fine mesh or "bolt" cloth, to remove impurities.
5 Letters
SIEVE: To put a substance through a sieve to separate out finer components or remove lumps.
6 Letters
WINNOW: To remove chaff from grain, or more broadly, to analyze a group of things to separate the good from the bad.
STRAIN: To pass through a filter or strainer to separate solids from liquids or to remove impurities.
7 Letters
ANALYZE: To examine (something, especially information or data) methodically and in detail, typically in order to explain or interpret it.
EXAMINE: To inspect (someone or something) in detail to determine their nature or condition, often implying a careful review or inspection.
8 Letters
SEPARATE: To cause to move apart or become disconnected; to divide or split into distinct parts.
9 Letters
PERCOLATE: To filter gradually through a porous surface or substance, often used in the context of liquids or ideas.
More About "sift crossword clue"
The clue "sift" is a versatile one in the crossword world, often appearing in various contexts from the literal to the figurative. Literally, it refers to the act of passing a substance, such as flour or sand, through a sieve or screen to separate out fine particles from coarse ones. This primary meaning gives rise to answers like SIFT itself, BOLT (specifically for flour), and SIEVE, each denoting a physical process of separation.
Beyond the culinary or material sense, "sift" frequently takes on a metaphorical meaning in crosswords. It can imply a careful, methodical examination or analysis of information, data, or evidence to discern facts, find errors, or select key components. This figurative usage opens up a broader range of answers, including ANALYZE, EXAMINE, and WINNOW, where the act of "sifting through" means to scrutinize or separate mentally. Recognizing whether the clue hints at a physical or intellectual process is key to selecting the correct answer.
Moreover, the concept of sifting is fundamental to many areas, from quality control in manufacturing to critical thinking in academics. This broad applicability makes it a rich source for clever and challenging crossword clues. Always consider the number of letters and any surrounding words in the clue to narrow down whether the setter intends a literal, agricultural, or analytical interpretation of "sift."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For clues like "sift," think of direct synonyms (e.g., filter, strain) but also consider words that imply the result of sifting (e.g., separate, purify) or the method (e.g., bolt, sieve). Sometimes, thinking of the opposite can spark an idea.
- Look at the letter count first: Always check the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down possibilities and helps you focus on answers that fit the length. For "sift," if it's 4 letters, SIFT or BOLT are strong candidates. If it's 7, ANALYZE or EXAMINE might fit.
- Context is king: Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue. "Sift (flour)" strongly points to BOLT. "Sift (information)" leans towards ANALYZE or EXAMINE. The context often guides you to the precise meaning the setter intends.
- Don't be afraid of figurative meanings: Many common words have both literal and figurative uses. "Sift" is a prime example. If a literal answer doesn't fit, consider its broader, more abstract implications.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'sift' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'sift' in crosswords include BOLT (especially for flour), SIEVE, WINNOW, STRAIN, and ANALYZE. The specific answer depends on the context provided by the rest of the clue and the required letter count.
How does the word 'sift' relate to different types of puzzles?
'Sift' is versatile. In literal senses, it refers to physically separating particles (like in a sieve). In figurative senses, it implies careful examination or analysis, which is relevant to logic puzzles, wordplay, and critical thinking challenges where you "sift through" clues or information.
Can 'sift' have a figurative meaning in crosswords?
Yes, absolutely. Beyond its literal meaning of passing through a mesh, 'sift' often implies a careful examination, selection, or analysis process. For example, "sift through evidence" means to meticulously examine it. Crossword setters frequently use this broader, metaphorical sense.