hardly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "hardly"? You've come to the right place! Our comprehensive guide provides all possible solutions, expert explanations, and tips to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "hardly crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
BARELY: This answer means only just; almost not. It's a very common synonym for 'hardly' in a context of quantity or degree.
RARELY: When 'hardly' refers to frequency, 'rarely' (not often) is a precise fit. Consider if the puzzle implies infrequency.
8 Letters
SCARCELY: Similar to 'barely', 'scarcely' means almost not at all or only just. It's a strong contender for 'hardly' especially when implying a small amount or degree.
More About "hardly crossword clue"
The clue "hardly" is a classic example of how adverbs can be tricky in crosswords. It's often used to imply a small degree, minimal effort, or infrequent occurrence. The key to solving it lies in considering the exact nuance intended by the puzzle setter and the number of letters required by the grid. Common answers like BARELY, SCARCELY, and RARELY reflect these different interpretations.
Understanding the context of the surrounding words and letters you've already filled in is crucial. Does 'hardly' fit into a phrase that suggests difficulty? Or is it part of a description of frequency? By analyzing these elements, you can narrow down the potential solutions and confidently choose the correct one.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the part of speech: "Hardly" is an adverb. This suggests your answer will also likely be an adverb (e.g., barely, rarely).
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: Brainstorm words that mean the same or the opposite. Sometimes a clue's meaning becomes clearer by thinking about its opposite.
- Check cross-references: If parts of the word are already filled in from intersecting clues, use those letters to narrow down possibilities. This is often the quickest way to confirm a tricky answer.
- Think about idioms: Sometimes "hardly" might be part of an idiomatic expression that needs to be completed, rather than a single word answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of 'hardly' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'hardly' most commonly points to adverbs indicating a small degree or infrequent occurrence, such as 'SCARCELY', 'BARELY', or 'RARELY'. It can also subtly imply difficulty, depending on the clue's broader context.
How do I find answers for short crossword clues like 'hardly'?
For shorter clues, consider all possible synonyms for the given word, paying close attention to the number of letters required. Think about different parts of speech, and if the clue could be an abbreviation or a specific idiom. Context from already solved letters is crucial.
Are there other words similar to 'hardly' used in crosswords?
Yes, other words and phrases that convey similar meanings to 'hardly' and often appear in crosswords include 'SELDOM', 'SCARCELY EVER', 'ALMOST NOT', or even terms related to difficulty like 'TOUGHLY' or 'WITH EFFORT' if the context suggests.