crossword clue gross – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "gross," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue gross" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FOUL: Offensive to the senses, or morally repugnant.
VILE: Extremely unpleasant, morally bad, or disgusting.
5 Letters
NASTY: Disgusting or unpleasant.
TOTAL: The full amount before deductions.
CRUDE: Unrefined, raw, or vulgar.
More About "crossword clue gross"
The clue "gross" is a classic example of a word with multiple distinct meanings frequently used in crosswords. It can refer to something utterly disgusting or offensive, in which case common answers include NASTY, FOUL, or VILE. Alternatively, "gross" can mean the total amount of something before deductions, such as 'gross income' versus 'net income', leading to answers like TOTAL or ENTIRE.
Crossword setters often leverage these double meanings to create challenging clues that require solvers to think broadly about the word's different applications. Recognizing the context—whether the clue hints at an adjective describing something unpleasant or a quantitative term—is key to solving it efficiently. Our comprehensive list covers both aspects to ensure you find the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: For words like "gross," always think about its various definitions. Is it an adjective or a noun? Does it relate to quantity or quality?
- Check surrounding letters: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, these can often narrow down which meaning of "gross" is intended, guiding you towards the correct answer.
- Word length is crucial: Knowing the number of letters required for the answer can immediately eliminate many possibilities. For example, if it's a 4-letter word, "NASTY" is out, but "FOUL" or "VILE" are possibilities.
- Look for synonyms: Brainstorm common synonyms for each meaning of "gross" and see which fit the grid and the provided letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "gross" have so many different answers in crosswords?
"Gross" is polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. Crossword constructors love such words as they allow for clever clues that can lead solvers down different paths depending on which meaning they initially consider.
How can I tell if "gross" means "disgusting" or "total" in a crossword?
Context is key! Look at the other words in the clue (if any), the number of letters in the answer, and any intersecting letters you might already have. If the clue implies a strong negative feeling, it's likely "disgusting." If it's about numbers or quantities, it's probably "total."
Are there common traps related to the clue "gross"?
Yes, the primary trap is getting fixated on only one meaning. Another can be confusing it with similar-sounding words or misinterpreting the part of speech (e.g., expecting a noun when an adjective is needed). Always be prepared for both the "disgusting" and "total" interpretations.