water down crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "water down crossword," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all possible solutions organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "water down crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
THIN: To make less dense or concentrated by adding liquid, effectively "watering down."
6 Letters
DILUTE: To make a liquid thinner or weaker by adding water or another solvent to it.
WEAKEN: To reduce the strength or effectiveness of something, a direct synonym for "water down."
REDUCE: To make something less or smaller in amount, degree, or size, which can imply making it less potent or concentrated.
More About "water down crossword"
"Water down" is a versatile phrase in crosswords, often hinting at actions that lessen intensity, concentration, or impact. While literally referring to adding water to a liquid, its figurative meanings are frequently tested. Puzzlers should consider both the literal dilution and the metaphorical weakening of ideas, proposals, or arguments.
When you encounter this clue, think beyond just beverages. It could apply to reducing the strength of a statement, moderating a stance, or even making something less extreme. The context of the surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme can often provide additional hints to guide you to the precise answer. Familiarity with synonyms for dilution and weakening will greatly assist your progress.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of available squares in your puzzle. This is the quickest way to narrow down potential answers for clues like "water down."
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword constructors love to play with word meanings. If "water down" doesn't immediately suggest a word, consider its synonyms (dilute, weaken, temper) and sometimes even antonyms if the clue uses a negation.
- Look for Figurative Meanings: Many common phrases have both literal and figurative interpretations. "Water down" is a prime example; while it means to add water, it also means to make something less forceful or extreme.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: The most reliable method. If you have a few letters from intersecting words, plug them into potential answers for "water down" to see what fits.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'water down' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'water down' usually refers to diluting something, making it weaker, less potent, or less extreme. Common answers include DILUTE, WEAKEN, THIN, or REDUCE.
How can I determine the correct length for 'water down' answers?
The length of the blank spaces in your crossword puzzle is key. Check how many letters are required. For example, 'THIN' is 4 letters, while 'DILUTE' and 'WEAKEN' are 6 letters. Crossword clues often give hints for the specific word length, guiding you to the right fit.
Are there common synonyms for 'water down' that appear in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms that also fit the 'water down' context in crosswords, depending on the specific nuance and letter count, include ABATE, MITIGATE, SOFTEN, or EXTENUATE. Always consider the precise meaning implied by the clue and surrounding words.