essentially crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "essentially", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "essentially crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
MAINLY: Pertaining to the most important or common aspect; primarily.
7 Letters
ATHEART: At the core or very essence of something; fundamentally.
9 Letters
BASICALLY: In the most basic or fundamental way; fundamentally.
VIRTUALLY: Nearly, almost, or in essence; for all practical purposes.
10 Letters
INHERENTLY: Existing in something as a permanent, essential, or characteristic attribute; innately.
13 Letters
FUNDAMENTALLY: In a basic or essential way; at the most basic level.
More About "essentially crossword clue"
"Essentially" is a versatile adverb that frequently appears in crosswords due to its rich array of synonyms. It prompts solvers to think about the core, fundamental, or intrinsic nature of a concept. Puzzle setters love this clue because it allows for a wide range of answers depending on the required letter count, from shorter words like MAINLY to longer, more descriptive ones like FUNDAMENTALLY or INHERENTLY.
When you encounter "essentially" in a crossword, consider what the clue is truly asking for: the basic truth, the underlying principle, or the most significant aspect. It often acts as a pointer to the heart of the matter, stripping away extraneous details to reveal the core concept. Understanding this nuance can help you choose the correct synonym from the many possibilities.
This clue can also sometimes hint at a summary or a simplified version of a more complex idea. For instance, if a clue describes something intricate and then uses "essentially," the answer might be a more generalized term. Always cross-reference with other completed words in the grid to verify your chosen answer and ensure it fits seamlessly into the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Intersecting Letters First: For clues with many possible answers like "essentially," always look at the letters already filled in from intersecting words. This is the fastest way to narrow down the options.
- Consider Word Length: The number of letters required is your next best friend. Our list above is sorted by length precisely for this reason. Eliminate words that don't match the grid's requirement.
- Think of Nuances: While many words mean "essentially," some carry slightly different nuances (e.g., "virtually" implies almost, while "inherently" implies naturally part of). If you have a few options, consider which best fits the overall tone or theme of the puzzle.
- Practice Synonyms: A strong vocabulary of synonyms for common abstract adverbs and adjectives will significantly improve your crossword-solving speed.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'essentially' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'essentially' often clues words that describe the core, main, or fundamental nature of something, or a crucial part of a concept. It can also imply a summary or simplification of a complex idea, pointing towards the fundamental truth.
Why are there so many answers for 'essentially crossword clue'?
Clues like 'essentially' are highly versatile and can have many synonyms depending on the number of letters required and the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends. Words like BASICALLY, VIRTUALLY, MAINLY, or INHERENTLY all convey a similar core meaning, making them popular choices across various crossword grids.
How can I narrow down answers for abstract clues like 'essentially'?
To narrow down answers for abstract clues, always look at intersecting letters from other solved clues first. Consider the specific context of the puzzle's theme or the setter's typical style. Also, think about common crossword tropes where 'essentially' might imply a summary, a core component, or a foundational concept.