Cherry or plum (6) - Crossword Clue
Answer: TOMATO
Understanding the Crossword Clue: Cherry or Plum
- The answer to "Cherry or plum (6)" is TOMATO because both cherry tomatoes and plum tomatoes are popular varieties of this versatile fruit.
- When you encounter this clue in your crossword puzzle, think beyond the traditional fruits - the clue is pointing you toward tomato cultivars that share these descriptive names.
- Cherry tomatoes are small, round varieties typically measuring about 1-2 inches in diameter, while plum tomatoes (also called Roma tomatoes) are oval-shaped and commonly used for sauces and canning.
- Both are specific types of tomatoes named for their resemblance to the fruits mentioned in the clue.
Why TOMATO Fits This Clue Perfectly
- The six-letter answer works because tomato varieties include both cherry and plum types.
- This is a classic example of a crossword clue using multiple examples to point toward a broader category.
- The clue employs misdirection by making you think of stone fruits initially, when actually it's referring to tomato varieties that bear these names.
- Crossword constructors love this type of wordplay because it requires solvers to think laterally about word relationships and botanical classifications.
Tips for Solving Similar Crossword Clues
- Look for variety indicators - When a clue lists two types or varieties separated by "or," consider whether they might be specific examples of a broader category rather than alternatives.
- Count your letters first - The (6) tells you immediately that you need a six-letter word, which helps narrow down possibilities before you even consider the clue's meaning.
- Think botanically - Crosswords often use scientific or botanical classifications that differ from culinary usage, so a fruit clue might lead to something you'd typically consider a vegetable.
- Consider produce sections - Many crossword clues reference items you'd find together in grocery stores, using the mental association between products to create clever misdirection.
- Watch for descriptive names - Cherry, plum, grape, and similar words often describe the size or shape of produce varieties rather than indicating the actual fruit family.
Cherry or plum (6) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q:Why is a tomato considered a fruit?
Botanically, tomatoes are fruits because they develop from the flower of the plant and contain seeds, though they're commonly treated as vegetables in cooking.
Q:What's the difference between cherry and plum tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes are small and round, typically sweet, while plum tomatoes are oval-shaped with fewer seeds and meatier flesh, making them ideal for sauces.
Q:Are there other crossword clues that use this same answer pattern?
Yes, you might see clues like "Grape or cherry variety" or "Roma or beefsteak, for example" that also lead to TOMATO.
Q:How can I get better at solving variety-based clues?
Familiarize yourself with common produce varieties, dog breeds, flower types, and other categories where specific examples share a common name.
Q:Is TOMATO a common crossword answer?
Yes, it's frequently used because it's six letters, contains common vowels, and allows for creative cluing opportunities around its fruit-versus-vegetable classification.
