solvent crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "solvent" in your latest crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "solvent crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ACID: A common chemical compound often used as a solvent in various reactions.
5 Letters
WATER: The universal solvent, essential for many biological and chemical processes.
ETHER: A highly volatile organic compound, frequently used as a laboratory solvent.
6 Letters
LIQUID: The state of matter typically associated with solvents, allowing dissolution.
7 Letters
ALCOHOL: A broad class of organic compounds, many of which are excellent solvents.
ACETONE: A strong organic solvent, often found in nail polish remover.
THINNER: A substance, often a solvent, added to paint or varnish to reduce viscosity.
More About "solvent crossword clue"
The term "solvent" in crosswords usually refers to a substance capable of dissolving another substance, forming a solution. This is a common scientific concept that appears frequently in puzzles. Clues might vary from direct definitions to more obscure references to specific types of solvents or their applications.
While the primary meaning revolves around chemistry, it's crucial to remember that "solvent" can also refer to a person or entity that is "able to pay one's debts" or is "financially sound." Always consider the context of the puzzle and other intersecting clues to determine if the clue is looking for a chemical substance or a financial state.
Common crossword answers for "solvent" often include everyday substances like WATER or ALCOHOL, as well as more specialized chemical names such as ACETONE or ETHER. Pay close attention to the word count and any additional descriptive words in the clue, such as "paint solvent" or "universal solvent," as these hints are key to narrowing down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter for potential solutions like ACID (4 letters) versus ALCOHOL (7 letters).
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: For "solvent," think beyond just chemical substances. Does the puzzle lean towards financial terms? Could it be a synonym for something that 'melts' or 'dissolves' a problem?
- Look for Contextual Clues: Many crossword clues use additional words to specify the type of solvent. For example, "paint remover solvent" strongly suggests THINNER or ACETONE, while "universal solvent" points directly to WATER.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: If you're stuck, fill in some letters from intersecting words. Even one or two letters can often reveal the correct "solvent" answer and confirm your suspicions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'solvent' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'solvent' typically refers to a substance capable of dissolving another substance, often pointing to common examples like water, alcohol, or acetone. It can also refer to being 'able to pay one's debts' or 'financially sound' in a different context, so always consider the surrounding clues.
Are there different types of solvents in crossword clues?
Yes, clues might differentiate between organic solvents (e.g., alcohol, ether) or inorganic ones (e.g., water, acid). The clue might also hint at specific uses, like 'paint solvent' (THINNER) or 'nail polish remover ingredient' (ACETONE).
How do I determine the letter count for a 'solvent' answer?
The number of letters is usually indicated by dashes or numbers in the crossword grid. If a clue gives multiple words, like 'universal solvent' (WATER), you count the letters of the answer word itself, not the clue.