smudge crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and detailed explanations for the "smudge crossword clue" to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We've gathered all possible answers, organized by letter count, to quickly guide you to the perfect fit.
Solutions for "smudge crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SPOT: A small mark or stain. Often implies a minor imperfection.
BLOT: A spot or mark, often of ink or a similar substance.
MARK: A visible impression or stain on a surface.
DAUB: A smear or plastering of a substance, often done clumsily.
5 Letters
SMEAR: A mark or streak made by smudging something, or the act of spreading something messily.
STAIN: A discoloring mark or spot, often difficult to remove.
7 Letters
BLEMISH: A mark or flaw that spoils the appearance of something, often implying an imperfection.
More About "smudge crossword clue"
"Smudge" is a versatile word that can appear in crosswords with several nuances. As a noun, it refers to a dirty mark, a blot, or an unclear streak, often caused by rubbing. As a verb, it describes the act of making such a mark or blurring something. This dual nature means that clues might hint at either the result or the action, requiring careful consideration of the context.
Common crossword setters often use "smudge" to lead to answers related to imperfections, dirt, or unclear vision. For instance, a clue like "Ink stain" could lead to BLOT, while "Makeup mark" might suggest SMEAR. Understanding these subtle differences and the various forms "smudge" can take is crucial for solving.
Sometimes, "smudge" can even refer to something that obscures sight, like a "smudge on the lens," pointing towards answers that imply a lack of clarity. Always consider the broader implications of the word within the clue's sentence structure.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: Determine if "smudge" is used as a noun (the mark) or a verb (the action). This helps narrow down whether the answer is a type of mark or an action word.
- Consider Letter Count: After identifying potential synonyms like SMEAR, BLOT, or STAIN, always check the available letter count in the grid. This is often the quickest way to eliminate possibilities.
- Look for Contextual Hints: Pay attention to other words in the clue. "Printer's smudge" points strongly to BLOT, while "Lipstick smudge" suggests SMEAR. These small details are often decisive.
- Think of Imperfections: Many answers for "smudge" relate to flaws or blemishes. If you're stuck, consider words that describe minor imperfections.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "smudge" typically refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'smudge' commonly refers to a mark, stain, or an unclear area. It can be a noun (the mark itself) or a verb (the action of making such a mark), leading to answers like BLOT, SMEAR, SPOT, or even BLEMISH.
Are there common synonyms for "smudge" that appear in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms for 'smudge' found in crossword puzzles include SMEAR, STAIN, BLOT, SPOT, MARK, and sometimes broader terms like BLEMISH or FLAW, depending on the subtlety of the clue.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like "blot" and "smear" for "smudge"?
The surrounding clue words are key. 'Blot' often implies an accidental, usually liquid, mark (like ink). 'Smear' suggests something spread messily, possibly from friction or a greasy substance. 'Smudge' itself is a more general term for an unclear or dirty mark. Consider the nuance the setter is trying to convey, and look at the number of letters required.