complete and total crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "complete and total". Whether you need a quick hint or a full breakdown, we've got you covered for all word lengths.
Solutions for "complete and total crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
UTTER: Meaning absolute or complete, as in 'utter joy' or 'utter nonsense'. Often used to emphasize a state or quality.
SHEER: Denoting a complete or absolute quality, often used to describe intensity or a pure state, such as 'sheer delight' or 'sheer exhaustion'.
TOTAL: Fully encompassing or complete; without reservation or remainder. Directly aligns with the clue's meaning.
8 Letters
ABSOLUTE: Without limit or qualification; definite and complete. Implies a state of being fully and entirely something, like 'absolute truth'.
More About "complete and total crossword clue"
"Complete and total" is a classic crossword clue construction that often points to words indicating an absolute or unqualified state. It's an intensifier, looking for synonyms that convey a sense of wholeness, extremity, or lack of any limitation. This type of clue tests your vocabulary for words that mean 'entirely', 'utterly', or 'without exception'.
When you encounter such a clue, consider the context of the puzzle, if any, and the number of letters required. Common answers like UTTER, SHEER, and TOTAL are frequently used, but longer solutions such as ABSOLUTE can also appear, depending on the grid and setter's style. These words are versatile and can be applied to emotions, states of being, or physical quantities.
Understanding these subtle nuances helps in quickly identifying the correct word. The clue isn't asking for two separate concepts of 'complete' and 'total' but rather using both to reinforce the singular idea of 'absolute' or 'entirety'.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Synonyms of Intensifiers: Clues like "complete and total" often signal that the answer is a word that intensifies another concept, such as 'utter nonsense' or 'sheer joy'. Think of words that express the highest degree.
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If the clue points to a five-letter word, you can immediately narrow down your options from 'complete and total' synonyms to those that fit the length, like UTTER or TOTAL.
- Consider Common Crossword Answers: Certain words appear frequently due to their versatility and common usage. For 'complete and total', answers like UTTER, SHEER, and ABSOLUTE are staples in many crossword puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'complete and total' signify in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'complete and total' typically serves as an intensifier or a synonym for words meaning absolute, utter, or entirely. It guides solvers to look for words that express a full or unequivocal state, rather than a partial one.
How can I easily find answers for 'complete and total' type clues?
Focus on synonyms that convey a sense of wholeness, extremeness, or lack of reservation. Common answers include TOTAL, ENTIRE, WHOLE, UTTER, SHEER, and ABSOLUTE. Always consider the letter count provided in the puzzle.
Are there common pitfalls when solving clues like 'complete and total'?
A common pitfall is overthinking it and looking for complex phrases. Often, the answer is a straightforward, single word synonym. Also, be careful not to confuse 'complete' with 'finish' or 'end', unless the clue specifically points in that direction.