ravine crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "ravine," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "ravine crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DELL: A small, secluded, and often wooded valley. While typically smaller than a classic ravine, it fits the description in many crossword contexts.
5 Letters
GULLY: A deep ditch or channel cut in the earth by running water. Often a smaller-scale feature than a full ravine, but frequently used as a synonym in puzzles.
GORGE: A narrow valley between hills or mountains, typically with steep rocky walls and a stream running through it. This is a very common and direct synonym for ravine.
CHASM: A deep fissure in the earth, rock, or another surface. Can refer to a very deep and wide ravine, emphasizing its depth and scale.
6 Letters
CANYON: A deep gorge, typically one with a river flowing through it. Often used when the ravine is notably large and impressive, carved by a watercourse.
More About "ravine crossword clue"
A ravine is a landform that describes a narrow, deep valley, typically one that has been carved by a stream or river. The term 'ravine' itself suggests a certain degree of erosion and often steep sides, distinguishing it from broader valleys or shallow depressions. In crosswords, 'ravine' is a popular clue because it has a rich set of synonyms that vary in length and nuance, making it adaptable to different puzzle grids.
Understanding the subtle differences between terms like gully, gorge, canyon, and dell can be crucial for solving these clues. While a gully is generally smaller and often temporary, a gorge implies a deeper, more permanent geological feature. Canyons are typically large-scale gorges, often associated with major rivers. Dell, on the other hand, suggests a small, secluded, often idyllic valley, contrasting with the ruggedness implied by 'ravine'.
When you encounter 'ravine' in a crossword, consider the number of letters available in the grid first, then think about common synonyms. The surrounding words in the clue or intersecting letters will help confirm which specific synonym is the correct answer. This geographical term is a staple in puzzles, testing your vocabulary of natural landscapes.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Letter Count: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This is the most crucial filter for 'ravine' and similar clues with multiple synonyms.
- Consider Nuance and Scale: Some clues might hint at the size or type of ravine. Is it a small depression (DELL, GULLY) or a grand, river-carved feature (CANYON, GORGE)?
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. This can often be the deciding factor between two plausible synonyms.
- Think Broadly About Synonyms: Don't limit yourself to the most obvious synonyms. Crossword constructors love to use less common but still valid alternatives.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are geographical terms like 'ravine' common in crosswords?
Geographical terms, including various types of landforms, are popular in crosswords because they often have multiple synonyms (e.g., gully, gorge, canyon) and can vary in length, making them versatile for puzzle constructors. They also test a solver's general knowledge and vocabulary related to the natural world.
How do I differentiate between similar answers for 'ravine' like 'gully' and 'gorge'?
The key is often the letter count. If the clue implies a smaller feature, 'gully' (5 letters) or 'dell' (4 letters) might fit. For a larger, more imposing feature, 'gorge' (5 letters) or 'canyon' (6 letters) are likely. Contextual words in the clue or intersecting letters are also crucial in making the final decision.
What's the best strategy for solving nature-themed crossword clues?
When encountering nature-themed clues, consider various synonyms for the described feature, think about related terms in geology or biology, and pay close attention to the number of letters required. Also, remember that some puzzles might use less common regional terms, so a broad vocabulary is helpful. Always use intersecting letters to confirm your answers.