smell strongly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're grappling with the clue "smell strongly" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate, and comprehensive solutions tailored to different letter counts, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "smell strongly crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
REEK: To emit a strong, unpleasant odor.
5 Letters
STINK: To have a strong, foul, or offensive smell.
More About "smell strongly crossword clue"
The clue "smell strongly" is a common one in crosswords, often pointing to words that denote an overpowering, usually unpleasant, aroma. The most frequent answers, as seen above, are 'REEK' and 'STINK'. While both broadly mean the same thing, 'reek' often carries a slightly more formal or archaic tone, though this distinction is rarely crucial in solving a crossword.
When encountering this clue, always consider the surrounding letters you already have filled in the grid. This will often immediately narrow down the possibilities based on letter count and specific letter placements. Both 'REEK' and 'STINK' are direct verbs meaning to emit a strong odor, making them ideal fits for a straightforward clue like this.
Understanding these direct synonyms and their common letter counts is a cornerstone of efficient crossword solving. Familiarity with such core vocabulary for common actions and descriptions will significantly speed up your puzzle completion time.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always compare the number of blank squares to the potential answers. For "smell strongly," knowing if you need a 4-letter or 5-letter word is the first step to success.
- Consider Synonyms & Nuances: While 'reek' and 'stink' are direct, some clues might hint at a specific type of strong smell (e.g., 'pungent' for sharp, 'fetid' for foul). Keep a mental dictionary of synonyms.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. They eliminate possibilities quickly and confirm correct answers. Don't be afraid to try an answer if most letters fit and then check the crossers.
- Context is Key: Sometimes, the theme of the puzzle or other clues can provide subtle hints about the type of vocabulary being used. Pay attention to any patterns or recurring topics.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'reek' and 'stink' in crosswords?
'Reek' and 'stink' are often interchangeable in crosswords when the clue is 'smell strongly'. Both imply a very offensive odor. The choice between them usually comes down to the number of letters required by the puzzle.
How can I tell if a 'smell strongly' clue refers to a noun or a verb?
The phrasing of the clue is key. If it's 'to smell strongly' or 'emits a strong odor', it's likely a verb (e.g., REEK, STINK). If it's 'a strong smell', it might be a noun (e.g., ODOR, AROMA, or even REEK/STINK if used as a noun, though less common for 'smell strongly'). Always check the word count and surrounding letters.
Are there other words for 'smell strongly' that appear in crosswords?
Beyond 'REEK' and 'STINK', you might encounter words like 'PUNGENT' (describing the smell itself rather than the act of smelling), 'ACRID', or 'FETID' depending on the specific nuance and letter count. These often imply a harsh or unpleasant strong smell.