very small dot or hole crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving even the trickiest crossword puzzles. Here, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "very small dot or hole crossword clue," designed to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "very small dot or hole crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PORE: A tiny opening on the surface of skin or rock, often referring to a minute hole.
MOTE: A very small particle or speck, commonly associated with dust or a tiny dot.
8 Letters
PINPRICK: A very small puncture or mark, as if made by a pin, perfectly fitting both a tiny dot and a tiny hole.
More About "very small dot or hole crossword clue"
The clue "very small dot or hole" is a classic example of how crosswords test your vocabulary for precision and nuance. Such clues require thinking about objects or concepts that fit a very specific, diminutive description. While "dot" and "hole" are common words, adding "very small" narrows down the possibilities considerably, leading to words that denote extreme minuteness or insignificance.
This type of clue often leads solvers to consider words derived from their etymology or specific contexts where such tiny features are significant. For instance, a "pore" is specifically a small hole, typically biological, while a "mote" is a literal speck. "Pinprick" is particularly evocative as it combines both concepts – a tiny mark (dot) and a tiny puncture (hole), often used metaphorically to describe something minor or negligible.
Understanding these subtle differences in meaning is key to selecting the correct answer. Crossword constructors love these clues because they have multiple plausible answers of varying lengths, making the surrounding letters and the puzzle's theme crucial for a definitive solve. Always consider the context of the puzzle, and don't be afraid to think beyond the most obvious synonyms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Adjectives: Words like "very small" are crucial. They guide you away from general terms towards more specific, often less common, vocabulary that precisely matches the degree of the description.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words have multiple meanings. "Dot" can be a punctuation mark or a small spot. "Hole" can be a large opening or a tiny aperture. Always explore the less common or more precise definitions.
- Look for Common Crossword Tropes: Some clues and answers are recurring. "Very small dot or hole" often leads to answers like PINPRICK, PORE, or MOTE because they are established crossword favorites for this specific concept. Keep a mental list of these.
- Use Crossing Letters: The most powerful tool in any crossword solver's arsenal is the letters you already have filled in from intersecting words. These letters often eliminate incorrect possibilities immediately, narrowing down your options for a precise fit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good crossword clue for "very small dot or hole"?
Clues for "very small dot or hole" often use synonyms like "speck," "tiny opening," "minute mark," or even more abstract references to insignificance or precision. Sometimes, they might hint at something hard to see or almost non-existent.
How can I identify the correct answer length for this clue?
The context of surrounding letters is crucial. If you have "P_N_____K", it strongly suggests "PINPRICK". For shorter answers like "PORE" or "MOTE", look for fewer blanks and less specific phrasing in the clue that fits a broader definition of 'small dot/hole', as well as crossing letters.
Are there other common crossword answers related to 'small' things?
Yes, many! Words like "IOTA," "TITTLE," "SMIDGEN," "OUNCE," or "WHIT" often refer to small amounts or insignificant quantities. For small physical objects, "CRUMB," "FLAKE," or "GRAIN" might appear, depending on the specific context of the clue.