Why does 'sour' often have multiple answers in crosswords?

'Sour' can refer to a taste, a mood, milk gone bad, or even a chemical property. This versatility means clue setters can use it in many contexts, leading to various synonyms like TART, ACID, BITTER, or words related to spoilage or disposition.

How can I distinguish between 'sour' answers like TART and ACID?

Context is key! TART often implies a pleasant sourness (e.g., a tart apple), while ACID usually refers to a strong, sharp, or chemical sourness. Look at the surrounding letters in the grid and other clues in the puzzle for hints about the specific nuance.

What other types of clues can 'sour' be associated with?

Beyond taste, 'sour' can refer to an unpleasant or irritable mood ('sour grapes', 'sour expression'), something having gone wrong ('sour deal', 'sour note'), or even fermented foods. Always consider all potential meanings of the word when tackling such clues.

crossword clue sour – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving even the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find all possible answers and detailed explanations for the clue "sour", organized by letter count, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your puzzle.

Solutions for "crossword clue sour" by Letter Count

4 Letters

TART: Having a sharp, pleasantly acidic taste. Often used to describe fruits like lemons or cranberries.

ACID: Sharp and pungent in taste; characteristic of acids. Can also refer to a substance with a pH less than 7.

5 Letters

ACERB: Sharp and forthright, often used to describe a comment or person's demeanor. Also means sour or bitter to the taste.

6 Letters

BITTER: Having a sharp, pungent taste or smell; not sweet. Often interchangeable with sour in some contexts, especially for dark chocolate or certain greens.

LEMONY: Tasting or smelling of lemon; implies a distinct citrus-like sourness. Can be used for food, drinks, or scents.

More About "crossword clue sour"

"Sour" is a fantastic crossword clue because of its versatility. It can refer to one of the five basic tastes, but its meaning extends far beyond that. In crosswords, clue setters love words with multiple interpretations, and "sour" fits the bill perfectly. Depending on the context, "sour" might point to a taste sensation (like a lemon or vinegar), a mood (a sour disposition or "sour grapes"), or even something gone bad (sour milk).

When you encounter "sour" in a puzzle, don't just think about taste. Consider its broader implications. Could it be about an unfortunate turn of events? An unpleasant facial expression? Or perhaps a chemical property? The surrounding clues and the number of letters often provide the best hints for which specific meaning the setter intends. Recognizing these nuances is key to cracking more complex crosswords.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Synonyms: For clues like "sour" that describe a quality or feeling, always think of direct synonyms (e.g., tart, acidic, acerbic).
Check Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If "sour" is a 4-letter answer, options like TART or ACID become strong candidates.
Look at Cross-Clues: Use intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. If a letter is shared with another clue, it must fit both answers.
Think Beyond Literal Meanings: Some clues use words metaphorically. "Sour" could mean unpleasant or unfavorable, not just a taste.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'sour' mean in a crossword context?

'Sour' in a crossword can mean a sharp, acidic taste (like TART or ACID), an unpleasant mood or disposition (like ACERB), or something that has gone bad or turned out unfavorably (like a 'sour deal'). Its precise meaning depends on the specific puzzle's context.

Are there any common misinterpretations for the clue 'sour'?

Yes, common misinterpretations include focusing solely on taste when the clue might refer to a mood or a situation. Another pitfall is confusing similar-sounding words or overlooking less common synonyms that might fit the letter count.

How can I improve my ability to solve 'sour' related clues?

To improve, practice by solving many crosswords and paying attention to how 'sour' and its synonyms are clued. Build your vocabulary of words related to taste, emotion, and decay. Using a thesaurus for common words like 'sour' can also expand your answer repertoire.