blackens crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "blackens" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "blackens crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
TAR: To coat or cover with a black, sticky substance.
5 Letters
CHARS: To burn or scorch, resulting in a black surface.
SOOTS: To cover or dirty with a black, powdery residue from smoke.
6 Letters
STAINS: To mark or discolor, often with a darker or blackish hue.
7 Letters
SMUDGES: To smear or make dirty with dark marks.
More About "blackens crossword clue"
The clue "blackens" often appears in crosswords to describe actions that result in a darkening or becoming black. This can range from the literal act of burning something to char, to the figurative sense of making something dark through a stain or dirt. Crossword setters love these types of clues because they allow for a variety of answers, depending on the specific context and letter count.
Understanding the different synonyms and contexts for "blackens" is crucial. For instance, a quick, intense burning action might lead to "CHARS," while a gradual discoloration could be "STAINS." Thinking about the different processes that lead to something becoming black can help you unlock the correct answer, especially when you have a few crossing letters to guide you.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: Always think of various synonyms for the clue. For "blackens," consider words like darken, burn, scorch, smudge, tarnish, or soil.
- Check word length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If an answer fits perfectly, it's likely correct. If you have several options, use the length to narrow them down.
- Look at crossing letters: Don't just focus on the horizontal or vertical clue. Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate possibilities.
- Context is key: Does the puzzle have a theme? Is the clue part of a phrase? Sometimes the broader context of the puzzle can give subtle hints about the nature of the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'blackens' typically imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'blackens' usually refers to actions that cause something to become dark or black. This can include burning, staining, coating with a dark substance, or making something dirty with a dark residue like soot.
Are there multiple common answers for 'blackens'?
Yes, depending on the letter count and the specific nuance, answers can vary. Common solutions include CHARS, SOOTS, TAR, STAINS, or SMUDGES, among others. The surrounding letters are key to determining the correct fit.
How can I narrow down the answer for a 'blackens' clue?
Pay attention to the number of letters required and any crossing letters you've already filled in. Consider synonyms for 'blacken' that fit the length, and think about different ways something might become black (e.g., by burning, by dirt, by a coating).