crossword clue almost – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "almost" for your current crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers across various letter counts, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue almost" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NIGH: An archaic word meaning very nearly; almost. Often seen in crosswords.
5 Letters
QUASI: Having some resemblance, but not fully; often used as a prefix meaning 'almost' or 'partially'.
6 Letters
NEARLY: Close to, but not completely; a very common synonym for 'almost'.
BARELY: Scarcely; only just; suggesting a minimal degree of something, often implying 'almost not'.
8 Letters
WELLNIGH: Very nearly; almost; an emphatic form of 'nigh' or 'almost'.
More About "crossword clue almost"
The word "almost" is a versatile adverb that signifies proximity to a state, action, or quantity without fully reaching it. In crosswords, clues containing "almost" often demand synonyms or phrases that convey this sense of nearing completion or being on the verge. This can include words indicating approximation, narrow escapes, or near misses.
Understanding the nuances of "almost" is key to solving related clues. For instance, "nearly" is a direct and common synonym, while "barely" suggests being just short of something, often with a negative connotation (e.g., "barely made it"). "Quasi-" as a prefix transforms a word to mean "seemingly" or "partly," aligning perfectly with the concept of "almost." Even archaic terms like "nigh" make frequent appearances, testing your knowledge of less common vocabulary.
When you encounter "almost" in a clue, consider the number of letters needed and think of all possible synonyms that fit the concept of 'nearly', 'partially', or 'on the verge of'. The context of other intersecting words will typically guide you to the precise answer needed for that specific puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always double-check the number of letters you have available in the grid. This is crucial as many clues have multiple possible answers of differing lengths, as seen with "almost."
- Consider Archaic or Uncommon Words: Crosswords frequently use older terms or less common synonyms. For "almost," words like NIGH or WELLNIGH are prime examples. Expanding your vocabulary, especially with such words, can be a huge advantage.
- Look for Prefixes/Suffixes: Some clues hint at parts of words. "Almost" can lead to prefixes like QUASI-, suggesting that the answer is part of a larger, less obvious word. Be alert for these structural hints.
- Think About Context: While "almost" seems straightforward, the surrounding words in the clue or the puzzle's theme might add a layer of meaning. Always consider the full context to avoid misinterpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there multiple answers for one crossword clue?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers depending on the specific puzzle, the constructor's intent, and the number of letters required. Synonyms and different shades of meaning for a single word can all fit the same clue, which is why a clue like 'almost' might have several solutions.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills?
To get better at crosswords, practice regularly, familiarize yourself with common 'crosswordese' (words frequently used in puzzles), pay close attention to the precise wording and type of clues (e.g., anagrams, double meanings, abbreviations), and use resources like Crosswordanswer.co.uk to understand common patterns and solutions.
What does 'almost' typically imply in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'almost' clues frequently point to synonyms that denote approximation or near completion, such as NEARLY, BARELY, or NIGH. It can also hint at prefixes or suffixes that convey a sense of partiality or approximation, like QUASI-. The clue suggests something that is close to, but not entirely, the described state or quality.