excessively precise crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "excessively precise" and need a helping hand, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate solutions and insightful explanations to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your crossword knowledge.
Solutions for "excessively precise crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
FINICKY: Describes someone who is overly particular, fussy, or demanding about small details.
8 Letters
PEDANTIC: Characterized by an excessive concern with minor details and rules, or with displaying academic learning.
10 Letters
SCRUPULOUS: Extremely thorough, careful, and attentive to details, often with a sense of moral integrity.
More About "excessively precise crossword clue"
The clue "excessively precise" often points to words that describe a meticulous nature, but taken to an extreme. This level of detail-orientation can sometimes be seen as positive (e.g., in craftsmanship) or negative (e.g., being nitpicky). Crossword setters love to play with these nuances, so understanding the subtle differences between words like "precise," "meticulous," and "pedantic" is key.
When you encounter such a clue, consider the context of the puzzle. Is it a pun? Is it looking for a formal or informal term? The number of letters available is your most critical guide, narrowing down the possibilities significantly. Words like FINICKY, PEDANTIC, and SCRUPULOUS all convey a degree of precision, but with different connotations, from fussiness to an almost obsessive adherence to rules or moral standards.
By exploring these terms, you not only solve your current puzzle but also enrich your vocabulary, preparing you for future crossword challenges. Remember that crosswords are as much about word knowledge as they are about logic and pattern recognition.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "excessively precise," pay close attention to adverbs (excessively) or adjectives that modify the core meaning. These often hint at specific synonyms rather than general ones.
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters you need. This is the fastest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on relevant answers.
- Use Cross-References: Don't just stare at the tricky clue. Solve easier intersecting words first. The letters you fill in will provide crucial hints for the more challenging parts.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct answer doesn't come to mind, try brainstorming synonyms for "precise" and then consider how "excessively" might modify them, or even think of antonyms for clues that might be twisted.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'excessively precise' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'excessively precise' clues often point to words describing someone overly focused on minute details, rules, or accuracy, sometimes to an annoying degree. Common answers include terms like PEDANTIC or FINICKY, depending on the nuance and letter count.
How can I find answers to difficult crossword clues like this one?
Start by analyzing the clue for synonyms, antonyms, parts of speech, and any potential wordplay indicators. Consider the number of letters required and any already filled letters from intersecting words. If stuck, a thesaurus can help, or a specialized crossword solver like Crosswordanswer.co.uk provides direct solutions and explanations.
Are there different types of precision described in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords often distinguish between general precision (e.g., ACCURATE, EXACT, CAREFUL) and excessive or fussy precision (e.g., PEDANTIC, FINICKY, METICULOUS, SCRUPULOUS). The specific wording of the clue—such as 'excessively'—is key to selecting the correct, more nuanced answer over a general one.