straight line through a circle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "straight line through a circle," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and confidently.
Solutions for "straight line through a circle crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CHORD: A straight line segment whose endpoints both lie on the circle.
6 Letters
SECANT: A line that intersects a circle at two distinct points, extending infinitely in both directions.
8 Letters
DIAMETER: A straight line segment that passes through the center of the circle and has its endpoints on the circumference; it's the longest chord of a circle.
More About "straight line through a circle crossword clue"
The clue "straight line through a circle" can lead to multiple valid answers in crosswords due to the varying geometric definitions of lines related to circles. The most common answers are CHORD, SECANT, and DIAMETER, each representing a slightly different concept but all fitting the broad description.
A CHORD is any line segment connecting two points on the circle's circumference. A DIAMETER is a special type of chord that specifically passes through the center, making it the longest possible chord. A SECANT is a line that cuts through the circle, intersecting it at two points, but unlike a chord or diameter, a secant extends infinitely beyond the boundaries of the circle.
Understanding these distinctions can be crucial for solving crosswords, especially when you have intersecting letters that help narrow down the possibilities. Consider the context of other clues in the puzzle to determine if a more general (CHORD, SECANT) or specific (DIAMETER) answer is required.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always start by matching the number of letters you have with the possible answers. This is often the quickest way to narrow down options.
- Consider Specificity: If a clue mentions "through the center," it almost certainly points to DIAMETER. If it's just "straight line," CHORD or SECANT are strong contenders.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by other solved clues will be your best friend. Use them to confirm or rule out potential answers.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword clues use less common or more technical terms. Familiarize yourself with basic geometry terms for clues like this.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'straight line through a circle' in crosswords?
The most common answers are 'DIAMETER' (if it passes through the center) or 'CHORD' (for any straight line segment connecting two points on the circle). 'SECANT' is also a strong possibility depending on the context.
What's the difference between a chord and a diameter?
A diameter is a special type of chord that always passes through the center of the circle. All diameters are chords, but not all chords are diameters. A chord simply connects any two points on the circle's circumference.
Can 'SECANT' be an answer for this clue?
Yes, a 'SECANT' is a straight line that intersects a circle at two points and extends infinitely in both directions. While 'CHORD' and 'DIAMETER' refer to line segments within the circle, 'SECANT' refers to the full line, making it a valid answer for 'straight line through a circle'.