sourness crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "sourness crossword clue," categorized by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit.
Solutions for "sourness crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TANG: A sharp, pungent taste or smell, often associated with a sour flavor.
5 Letters
SHARP: Having an intense, strong taste or smell; often implies a sour or acidic quality, especially in cheeses or wines.
7 Letters
ACIDITY: The quality or state of being acid; the level of acid in a substance, directly relating to sourness.
8 Letters
TARTNESS: The quality of being tart; having a sharp, pungent, or sour taste.
ACRIDITY: The quality of being acrid; having a strong, irritatingly bitter or unpleasant taste or smell.
More About "sourness crossword clue"
The clue "sourness" in a crossword puzzle typically refers to a taste sensation, often associated with acids like those found in lemons, vinegar, or unripe fruits. However, a clever crossword setter might use it to describe a mood or disposition, as in a 'sour attitude' or 'sour grapes.' This dual meaning requires solvers to consider the broader context of the puzzle or other intersecting words to determine the correct answer.
Common answers for "sourness" relate directly to its chemical properties or the resulting sensory experience. Words like ACIDITY, TARTNESS, and ACRIDITY are frequently used, each carrying a slightly different nuance. TANG might suggest a less intense, zesty sourness, while ACRIDITY points to a more unpleasant, biting quality. Understanding these subtle differences can be key to unlocking the correct solution.
When encountering "sourness," also think about the length of the word. A shorter answer like TANG is often a good first guess if the letter count is low, while longer words like TARTNESS or ACERBITY provide more detailed descriptions of the quality. Always cross-reference with letters you've already filled in from other clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters in the answer is your primary guide. Eliminate possibilities that don't match the required length for the "sourness crossword clue."
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Think beyond direct synonyms. For "sourness," consider words that describe the taste (e.g., tangy, acidic), the effect (e.g., puckering), or even a metaphorical sourness (e.g., ill-temper).
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other clues in the same section can hint at whether "sourness" refers to taste or temperament. For instance, if other clues are food-related, taste is more likely.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, fill in any intersecting words you can. The letters revealed might give you the breakthrough you need to solve "sourness crossword clue."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other words are related to 'sourness' in crosswords?
Beyond direct synonyms like ACIDITY or TARTNESS, clues for 'sourness' might lead to answers like BITTERNESS, PUCKERY, ACERBIC, or even words describing a sour facial expression, such as SCOWL or FROWN, depending on the crossword setter's intent.
How do I determine the correct length for 'sourness crossword clue'?
Most crossword puzzles specify the number of letters in the answer through the grid or a number in parentheses next to the clue. Always check this number first to narrow down your options. If the clue has a specific context, like 'citrus sourness,' that might hint at a more specific answer like TANG or ACIDITY.
Can 'sourness' ever refer to something other than taste?
Absolutely! 'Sourness' can also describe a mood or disposition (e.g., 'sour mood,' 'sour disposition'), meaning gloomy, irritable, or unpleasant. In such cases, answers like PEEVISHNESS, ACRIMONY, or ILLTEMPER might fit, requiring careful consideration of the clue's broader context.