last stages of a contest crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue 'last stages of a contest crossword', you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers and insightful explanations to help you complete your puzzle and enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "last stages of a contest crossword" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FINALE: The concluding part of a contest or event, often marked by high tension and excitement.
7 Letters
ENDGAME: The final phase of a game or competition, especially in strategic contests like chess, where players are close to victory or defeat.
More About "last stages of a contest crossword"
The "last stages of a contest" refers to that critical period where the outcome is decided. This phrase evokes a sense of climax, tension, and heightened strategy. In sports, it could be the final minutes of a game, the last lap of a race, or the concluding round of a tournament. For crosswords, clues referencing this concept often test your vocabulary for synonyms of "end," "conclusion," or "decisive phase."
Understanding the nuance of the clue is key. While "FINALE" might fit a musical contest or a general event, "ENDGAME" has stronger connotations with strategic games like chess, where the final moves are meticulously planned. Crossword constructors love to use words that precisely fit the context they've created, so considering the implied setting of the 'contest' can often lead you to the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always consider the specific type of "contest" the clue implies. Is it a sporting event, a theatrical performance, or a board game? This can drastically narrow down the possible answers.
- Look for Letter Counts: If you have some letters filled in or a clear idea of the word's length, use that to filter potential solutions. Our categorized answers by letter count make this process easier.
- Synonym Brainstorming: Think broadly about synonyms for "end," "conclusion," "climax," or "finality." Words that might not immediately come to mind can sometimes be the perfect fit for a crossword's unique phrasing.
- Check Cross-References: If you're struggling with one clue, sometimes solving intersecting clues can provide crucial letters that make the challenging one much clearer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a 'last stage' clue difficult in crosswords?
These clues can be tricky because there are many synonyms for 'end' or 'final part'. The specific context (whether it's a game, a race, or a performance) is crucial for narrowing down the possibilities and finding the precise answer.
Are there common crossword answers for 'end of a game' or 'contest'?
Yes, besides FINALE or ENDGAME, words like CLIMAX, CONCLUSION, or even DENOUEMENT (though more theatrical) can appear depending on the puzzle's theme, constructor's style, and specific letter count.
How can I improve my ability to solve abstract clues like 'last stages of a contest'?
Practice thinking broadly about synonyms and phrases related to the core concept. Building a strong vocabulary, familiarizing yourself with common crosswordese, and paying close attention to the word count and any known letters are key strategies. Sometimes, thinking about different contexts (sports, music, theatre) can help unlock the answer.