etc crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "etc crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and enhance your vocabulary.
Solutions for "etc crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ETC: The direct abbreviation of 'et cetera', often used in clues to mean 'and so on'.
4 Letters
ETAL: An abbreviation of 'et alii', Latin for 'and others', frequently used in academic references.
6 Letters
ETALIA: From the Latin 'et alia', meaning 'and other things', a less common but valid expansion.
7 Letters
ANDSOON: A common English phrase that serves as a direct synonym for 'etc.'.
8 Letters
ETCETERA: The full Latin phrase from which 'etc.' is abbreviated, meaning 'and the rest'.
More About "etc crossword clue"
The clue "etc" in a crossword puzzle is a classic example of an abbreviation or a Latin phrase that solvers need to recognize. While it most commonly refers to the full Latin phrase "et cetera" meaning "and the rest" or "and so on," it can also be a standalone answer or hint at similar abbreviations like "et al." Knowing its various forms and synonyms is key to unlocking these types of clues.
Crossword setters love to play with words and their origins. "Etc." is a prime candidate for this, appearing in puzzles from beginner to expert levels. The context of the surrounding letters and the length of the required answer will often guide you to the correct solution among the possibilities like ANDSOON, ETALIA, or the full ETCETERA.
Understanding Latin roots is incredibly beneficial for crossword enthusiasts, as many common abbreviations and obscure words found in puzzles have Latin origins. The consistent use of such abbreviations makes them a common and predictable element once you learn to spot them.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Abbreviations and Acronyms: Always be on the lookout for clues that might hint at an abbreviation. Phrases like "for short," "briefly," or the presence of periods in the clue itself are strong indicators.
- Think Synonyms and Phrases: For clues like "etc.", consider common English phrases that mean the same thing, such as "AND SO ON" or "AND THE REST."
- Explore Latin Roots: Many crossword answers, especially shorter ones, derive from Latin or Greek. Familiarize yourself with common Latin phrases and their abbreviations, as they frequently appear in puzzles.
- Check Letter Counts: Use the given number of letters as your primary filter. If the clue suggests a common abbreviation, mentally run through common expansions that fit the length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "etc" mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'etc.' typically refers to the abbreviation for 'et cetera,' a Latin phrase meaning 'and so on' or 'and the rest.' Clues involving 'etc.' often lead to answers that are expansions of this phrase, synonyms, or other Latin abbreviations for lists.
Are there other common Latin abbreviations used as crossword answers?
Yes, crosswords frequently use other Latin abbreviations. Common examples include 'e.g.' (exempli gratia, for example), 'i.e.' (id est, that is), 'N.B.' (nota bene, note well), and 'P.S.' (postscript, written after). Recognizing these can greatly help in solving related clues.
How do I identify abbreviations in crossword clues?
Clues indicating an abbreviation often use specific indicators. Look for punctuation like periods (e.g., 'etc.'), an apostrophe (e.g., 'abbr.'), or phrases like 'for short,' 'briefly,' 'in brief,' or 'for example.' Sometimes, the answer itself might be a common abbreviation or initialism.