eat away crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "eat away" in your crossword? Don't worry, you've come to the right place! This page provides all possible answers, clear explanations, and useful tips to help you complete your puzzle and improve your solving skills.
Solutions for "eat away crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GNAW: To bite at or chew something persistently, often causing wear or damage over time. Can be literal or figurative, like worry gnawing at a person.
5 Letters
ERODE: To gradually wear away or diminish, especially by natural forces like wind, water, or ice. Think of a river eroding a riverbank.
6 Letters
ABRADE: To scrape or wear away by friction or erosion. Often used when a surface is rubbed away.
7 Letters
CORRODE: To destroy or damage (metal, stone, or other materials) gradually by chemical action, such as rust eating away at iron.
CONSUME: To completely eat, drink, or use up something. Can refer to eating food, or a fire consuming wood.
More About "eat away crossword clue"
The phrase "eat away" in crosswords is a versatile clue that can lead to several different answers, depending on the specific context and the required number of letters. At its core, it implies a process of gradual reduction, destruction, or deterioration. This can manifest in various ways: physically (like erosion or corrosion), mentally (like worry gnawing at one's peace), or even abstractly (like time eating away at an opportunity).
When solving, consider the nuance. Does the clue suggest a natural process, a chemical reaction, or a persistent, small-scale action? Paying attention to these subtleties will guide you towards the most accurate answer among options like ERODE, CORRODE, GNAW, or ABRADE. Always cross-reference with surrounding letters to confirm your choice.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: "Eat away" isn't just about food. Think about natural processes (erosion), chemical reactions (corrosion), or even figurative uses (worry).
- Check letter count first: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. It immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Look at crossing letters: Fill in any letters you already have from intersecting words. These will often confirm or eliminate potential answers for "eat away."
- Context is key: Sometimes the crossword setter will add a word or phrase that hints at the specific type of "eating away" (e.g., "rust, for example" pointing to CORRODE).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'eat away' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'eat away' typically refers to a process of gradual destruction, wearing down, or consumption. Common answers include ERODE, CORRODE, or GNAW, depending on the specific nuance and letter count required by the puzzle.
Are there common synonyms for 'eat away' used in crosswords?
Yes, synonyms like 'erode', 'corrode', 'gnaw', 'abrade', 'consume', and 'fray' are frequently used. The context of the clue and the number of letters in the answer usually help narrow down the options.
How do I choose the correct 'eat away' answer from multiple options?
The best strategy is to check the letter count first. Then, consider any crossing letters you already have filled in. Finally, reflect on the subtle differences in meaning (e.g., 'corrode' implies chemical action, 'erode' often natural forces, 'gnaw' is more about biting) to match the clue's precise intent.