crossword clue whole – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "crossword clue whole," designed to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We've compiled solutions across various word lengths, ensuring you find exactly what you need for this common clue.
Solutions for "crossword clue whole" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ALL: This common answer signifies entirety or every part of something, fitting 'whole' perfectly, especially when a short solution is needed.
4 Letters
FULL: Often used to describe something that is complete, maximum, or comprehensive, aligning perfectly with the concept of 'whole'.
5 Letters
TOTAL: Implies the complete amount or sum, encompassing all elements without omission, which is a direct synonym for 'whole'.
6 Letters
ENTIRE: Directly means 'whole' or 'complete', making it a very common and straightforward answer in crosswords for this clue.
INTACT: Meaning complete and undamaged, this word can also be a fitting answer for 'whole' when referring to something preserved in its original state.
8 Letters
COMPLETE: Suggests that nothing is missing or that something has reached its finished and perfect state, directly reflecting the meaning of 'whole'.
9 Letters
UNDIVIDED: Literally means not separated into parts or not broken up, thus perfectly representing the concept of 'whole' or unified.
More About "crossword clue whole"
"Whole" is a highly versatile word in the English language, making it a popular yet sometimes tricky clue in crosswords. At its core, "whole" universally refers to something complete, entire, or undivided. This could pertain to a physical object that remains unbroken, a quantity that includes all its constituent parts, or an abstract state of totality and integrity.
Crossword constructors often leverage these different shades of meaning. For example, 'whole' might strictly refer to a 'whole number' in a mathematically themed puzzle, distinguishing it from fractions or decimals. Alternatively, it could imply soundness or health, as in the idiom "to make one whole" after an illness or trauma. Understanding these potential interpretations is crucial for successful puzzle-solving, especially when multiple plausible answers might fit the given letter count.
When you encounter "crossword clue whole," it's always beneficial to consider the surrounding clues and any overarching thematic elements of the puzzle. This broader context can frequently guide you towards the most appropriate answer, whether it's a concise synonym like 'ALL', a descriptive term such as 'UNDIVIDED', or something in between. Always remember that even a single confirmed crossing letter can be the key to unlocking the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For words like "whole," think about its various definitions (complete, entire, healthy, unbroken, etc.) and how they might fit the puzzle's theme or other clues. Context is king in crosswords!
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the clue's potential answers with the exact number of available squares in your grid. This is the quickest way to narrow down your options significantly for any clue.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The most effective strategy is to use letters from intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can often reveal the correct answer for "whole" when several synonyms are possible, eliminating guesswork.
- Consider Common Crossword Conventions: Many crosswords rely on a consistent set of synonyms for frequently used words. Keep a mental list of common answers for words like "whole" (e.g., ALL, TOTAL, ENTIRE) and try them first.
For more advice and advanced techniques to conquer any grid, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'whole' typically mean in a crossword clue?
'Whole' in a crossword clue usually refers to completeness, entirety, something undivided, or the full amount. Common synonyms include entire, complete, total, all, full, and undivided, depending on the context and required length.
How can I determine the correct length for 'whole' when solving a crossword?
The correct length depends solely on the number of available squares in your crossword grid. If you have 3 squares, 'ALL' is a strong contender. For 6 squares, 'ENTIRE' or 'INTACT' might work. Always use the crossing letters to confirm the best fit and ensure it makes sense within the overall puzzle's theme or style.
Are there any less obvious meanings for 'whole' in crosswords?
Yes, beyond meaning 'complete', 'whole' can sometimes refer to a 'whole number' in a mathematical context, or imply health and being sound ('to make one whole' or 'a whole person'). Always consider the broader puzzle theme or other surrounding clues for these nuanced interpretations, as setters often use them to challenge solvers.