as a whole crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "as a whole," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "as a whole crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
WHOLLY: Meaning entirely or completely. This is a very common answer for "as a whole" in puzzles.
INTACT: Meaning complete and undamaged. Less common for "as a whole" but possible depending on context.
7 Letters
TOTALLY: Meaning absolutely, completely, or entirely. A strong synonym for "as a whole."
OVERALL: Covering or including everything; taken as a whole. Another excellent fit.
8 Letters
ENTIRELY: Meaning completely and without exception. A precise match for the clue.
GLOBALLY: Meaning worldwide or comprehensively; can imply 'as a whole' in certain contexts.
10 Letters
ALTOGETHER: Meaning completely; without exception. Also signifies 'in total' or 'collectively'.
COMPLETELY: Meaning entirely; to the fullest extent. A straightforward and fitting answer.
More About "as a whole crossword clue"
The phrase "as a whole" is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles of all difficulty levels. It challenges solvers to think about synonyms that convey completeness, unity, or an encompassing view. Understanding the nuances of this phrase is key to unlocking many clues that revolve around the concept of totality.
When you encounter "as a whole," your mind should immediately jump to words like 'entirely', 'wholly', 'totally', or 'altogether'. However, sometimes clever clue writers might use it to imply a collection or a unified group, leading to answers like 'collectively' or 'overall'. The context of the surrounding words in the grid and the letter count are your best friends in deciphering the exact solution.
Mastering clues like "as a whole" not only helps you complete your current puzzle but also sharpens your general knowledge of synonyms and antonyms, which is invaluable for long-term crossword success. Pay attention to the number of letters provided in the grid, as this is often the most direct hint for which specific synonym is being sought.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of boxes available for the answer. This is the most crucial hint for "as a whole" clues, as several synonyms exist with different lengths.
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: Think beyond the most obvious 'entirely' or 'wholly'. Sometimes clues like this can lead to answers that mean 'in general' or 'collectively'.
- Use Intersecting Words: The letters from perpendicular clues are invaluable. If you have an 'L' in the third position, for instance, it can quickly narrow down your options from 'TOTALLY' to 'WHOLLY' or 'GLOBALLY'.
- Context is Key: While "as a whole" is straightforward, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme might add a subtle layer of meaning. Always consider the overall puzzle context.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'as a whole' typically imply in a crossword clue?
'As a whole' usually implies completeness, entirety, or totality. It asks for a word that means 'in its entirety', 'totally', 'completely', or 'collectively'.
How can I find answers for 'as a whole' clues?
Look at the number of letters required. Common answers include WHOLLY (6 letters), TOTALLY (7 letters), ENTIRELY (8 letters), and ALTOGETHER (10 letters). Also, check intersecting letters from other clues to narrow down possibilities.
Are there other common phrases similar to 'as a whole'?
Yes, common synonyms that often appear as answers for similar clues include COMPLETELY, GLOBALLY, OVERALL, or COLLECTIVELY, depending on the specific nuance and letter count.