narrow valley crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "narrow valley crossword clue" and need a hand, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "narrow valley crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GLEN: A narrow, secluded valley, often found in Scotland or Ireland.
5 Letters
GORGE: A narrow valley between hills or mountains, typically with steep rocky walls and a stream running through it.
6 Letters
RAVINE: A deep, narrow gorge, typically one formed by running water.
CANYON: A deep gorge, typically one with a river flowing through it, often larger and more extensive than a ravine.
DEFILE: A narrow passage or gorge, especially one through mountains, often implying a difficult or strategic route.
More About "narrow valley crossword clue"
The term "narrow valley" in crosswords often points to geographical features characterized by their constricted width relative to their length and depth. These terms are popular in puzzles because they can refer to a variety of landforms, each with slight nuances in meaning. Understanding these differences can be key to unlocking the correct answer, especially when a clue provides additional context.
From the picturesque GLENs of the Scottish Highlands to the dramatic CANYONs of the American Southwest, or the steep RAVINEs carved by ancient waters, these terms paint vivid pictures. Crossword setters love them because they allow for clever wordplay and require solvers to consider not just the literal meaning, but also the specific connotations and common usages of each term.
Identifying the right solution often comes down to the number of letters and any other intersecting words you've already solved. Familiarity with common synonyms for "narrow valley" and their typical length will significantly speed up your solving process.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters in the answer grid. This is the most crucial first step to narrow down potential solutions for clues like "narrow valley."
- Consider Regional Variations: Some "narrow valley" terms, like GLEN, have strong regional associations (e.g., Scotland, Ireland). If the clue hints at a specific locale, prioritize answers that fit.
- Look for Synonyms & Specificity: Pay attention to any additional descriptors in the clue. Is it just a "narrow valley," or is it a "deep narrow valley," or one with "steep sides"? These nuances can guide you from a general term to a more specific one like GORGE or RAVINE.
- Use Crossing Letters: Leverage letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These are often the definitive decider when multiple answers of the same length, such as RAVINE, CANYON, or DEFILE, fit the basic definition.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a 'gorge' and a 'ravine'?
While often used interchangeably, a 'gorge' typically refers to a narrow valley with steep, rocky walls, often carved by a river. A 'ravine' is generally a smaller, narrower, and often deeper cut in the earth, usually formed by a stream or heavy rainfall, sometimes less imposing than a full gorge.
Can 'glen' and 'dale' be used interchangeably for 'narrow valley'?
While both refer to valleys, 'glen' specifically denotes a narrow, secluded valley, particularly common in Scottish and Irish contexts. 'Dale' is a more general term for a valley, which can be wide or narrow, so 'glen' is a more precise fit for 'narrow valley' in many crossword scenarios.
How do I choose the right 'narrow valley' answer in a crossword?
To choose the correct answer, first check the number of letters required by the puzzle. Then, consider any crossing letters you've already filled in. Finally, look for any additional context in the clue (e.g., 'Scottish narrow valley' would strongly suggest GLEN, or 'deep, river-carved narrow valley' might point to CANYON or GORGE).