This idiom is used to describe a wide range of situations where something potentially negative or neutral is turned into an advantage. For instance:
Perhaps it's "USEFUL MATERIAL" = "RESOURCE" (8) but again not.
To fully appreciate why this phrase fits the clue, it helps to look at its agricultural roots. What is Grist?
— no.
Precise common phrase meaning useful material/knowledge: "MEAT OF THE MATTER" (4-2-3-6) — close. useful material or knowledge crossword clue 5 2 3 4
Let me search for the exact clue on a crossword database that shows answer patterns. There is a website "crossword-dictionary.com". Let me try..
This combination perfectly matches the given clue and letter counts, making it the most likely solution.
Yes! “Grind your teeth” is a common phrase (bruxism). And “grind” can mean:
Let me think of common crossword answers that are 5,2,3,4 letters. Often such clues are for phrases like "BITS AND PIECES" but that's 4,3,6. "STUFF AND NONSENSE" is 5,3,8. "MATERIAL KNOWLEDGE" maybe "STUFF OR INFO"? "STUFF" is 5, "OR" is 2, "INFO" is 4? But that leaves a 3-letter word missing. "STUFF OR INFO" would be 5,2,4 – missing a 3. "STUFF AND INFO" would be 5,3,4 – missing a 2. So not. This idiom is used to describe a wide
In a traditional mill, the miller required a steady supply of grain to keep the heavy millstones turning smoothly. If the stones ran empty, they would rub against each other, causing friction, sparks, and severe damage to the machinery. Therefore, any grain brought to the mill—regardless of its quality—was valuable because it kept the mill operating and generating profit.
Random facts and diverse reading materials eventually become useful knowledge during an exam. How to Solve Similar Multi-Word Crossword Clues
: This idiom refers to useful experience, material, or knowledge that can be turned to one’s advantage or profit. Historically, "grist" was the amount of grain brought to a mill to be ground into flour; therefore, anything brought to the mill was useful for the miller’s business. 🧩 Complete Guide to the Clue 1. Definition and Usage
"STUFF TO LEARN" (5-2-5) — no.
However, a more common and simpler answer (seen in The Washington Post crossword) for “useful material or knowledge” with that letter pattern is:
If you find yourself stuck on long, multi-word phrases in the future, keep these strategies in mind:
Happy puzzling! 🧩