valley crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "valley crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "valley crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GLEN: A narrow valley, especially one in Scotland or Ireland, often with a river running through it.
DALE: A broad valley, often used in poetic or archaic contexts, common in northern England.
VALE: A poetic or archaic term for a valley, similar to 'dale', often implying a gentle, picturesque setting.
DELL: A small, secluded, and often wooded valley or hollow, suggesting a charming and intimate space.
5 Letters
GULLY: A small valley or ravine, typically one formed by erosion, often narrower and deeper than a simple valley.
6 Letters
HOLLOW: A small valley, a depression, or a sunken area of ground, often implying a less defined or formal landform.
RAVINE: A deep, narrow valley with steep sides, typically one formed by running water, often more rugged than a regular valley.
More About "valley crossword clue"
The term "valley" describes a low area of land between hills or mountains, often with a river or stream flowing through it. Crossword setters frequently use this clue due to the rich variety of synonyms and specific types of valleys that exist in the English language. From the poetic 'vale' to the geographically specific 'glen', the challenge lies in pinpointing the exact word the setter intends.
Understanding the nuances of these terms is key. For example, a 'glen' often evokes images of the Scottish Highlands, while a 'dale' might bring to mind the Yorkshire Dales. 'Hollow' or 'dell' suggest smaller, more secluded depressions, and 'ravine' implies a much steeper, more dramatic cut in the landscape. Paying attention to any additional descriptors in the clue can guide you to the correct answer, whether it's related to size, location, or poetic usage.
Crossword clues for "valley" can also sometimes be tricky, using wordplay or indirect references. Always consider if the clue might be hinting at something other than a literal valley, though in most cases, it's a straightforward synonym. Expanding your vocabulary for geographical terms can significantly improve your success with these types of clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly for "valley" clues.
- Consider Context: Look for any additional words in the clue. Does it mention a country (e.g., "Scottish valley")? A type of flow (e.g., "water-worn valley")? This context is crucial for choosing between similar-length synonyms.
- Think Poetic vs. Literal: Some answers like 'VALE' or 'DALE' lean towards poetic or archaic usage, while others like 'HOLLOW' or 'GULLY' are more literal descriptions of depressions. If the clue has a lyrical feel, consider the more poetic options.
- Check Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues. This is often the quickest way to confirm or rule out a potential valley answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'valley' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'valley' often found in crosswords include GLEN, DALE, VALE, DELL, HOLLOW, and RAVINE. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and any additional context in the clue.
How can I distinguish between 'glen', 'dale', and 'vale' in a crossword?
While all refer to types of valleys, 'GLEN' often implies a narrow, typically Scottish or Irish valley. 'DALE' suggests a broader, open valley. 'VALE' is a more poetic or archaic term for a valley, often interchangeable with 'dale' in crossword settings. Look for hints in the clue's tone or specific geographical references.
Are geographical terms often used in crossword clues?
Yes, geographical terms like 'valley' are very common in crosswords. Clues might refer to landforms (mountains, rivers, plains), bodies of water (oceans, lakes, seas), or specific regions. Familiarity with these terms and their various synonyms is a significant advantage in solving puzzles.