crossword clue only just – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "only just" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide quick and accurate solutions to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue only just" by Letter Count
4 Letters
JUST: In the sense of 'barely' or 'only a moment ago', fitting the 'only just' context.
6 Letters
BARELY: This word directly means 'only just' or 'hardly at all', indicating a very small margin.
8 Letters
SCARCELY: Similar to 'barely', meaning 'only just' or 'almost not', emphasizing a minimal occurrence.
More About "crossword clue only just"
"Only just" is a common adverbial phrase in English that implies a very narrow margin, a minimal degree, or something that happened with little to no room to spare. In crossword puzzles, it's a classic clue that tests your vocabulary for synonyms and related terms that convey this precise meaning. Puzzlers often look for words like 'barely', 'scarcely', or even 'just' when it's used in the sense of 'only just now' or 'by a narrow margin'.
The trick with such clues lies in considering the number of letters required and how the answer integrates with other words in the grid. Sometimes, the clue might point to a state of being on the verge of something, or having achieved something by the smallest possible amount. Recognizing these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer among several plausible options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: For clues like "only just," think of all possible synonyms that convey a similar meaning, such as 'hardly', 'merely', 'narrowly', or 'barely'.
- Check letter counts: Always verify the number of letters needed for the answer. This is the single most important constraint in crosswords and immediately narrows down your options.
- Use crossing letters: If you're stuck, try to fill in intersecting words first. Even one correct letter can be the breakthrough you need to solve a difficult clue like "only just."
- Think of context: While "only just" seems straightforward, sometimes the context of the puzzle (e.g., a themed puzzle) might give it a slight twist.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "only just" mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, "only just" often points to words that signify a narrow margin, a minimal amount, or something that barely happened. Common answers include BARELY, JUST, or SCARCELY.
Are there common tricks for "only just" clues?
Clues like "only just" often lead to adverbs. Look for words that imply a very small difference or degree. Consider synonyms for 'hardly' or 'narrowly', especially those that fit common letter patterns.
Why are there multiple answers for "only just"?
Crossword clues can be ambiguous or have multiple valid interpretations and synonyms. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the intersecting letters from other clues in the puzzle.