last stages of a contest crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! If you're looking for solutions to "last stages of a contest crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers across various letter lengths, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "last stages of a contest crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FINALE: The concluding part of a public performance or a final part of a contest.
7 Letters
ENDGAME: The final stage of a game or contest, especially chess, when few pieces are left. Metaphorically used for any final phase.
11 Letters
HOMESTRETCH: The final part of a race, contest, or other endeavor.
More About "last stages of a contest crossword clue"
The "last stages of a contest" is a common theme in crosswords, often requiring you to think about various ways a competition or event can conclude. This can range from formal terms like a 'finale' in a show, to more strategic phases like an 'endgame' in chess, or even a metaphorical 'homestretch' as a race nears its conclusion. Crossword setters love to play with these nuances, so understanding the context is key.
Clues related to the end of a contest often test your vocabulary across different domains: sports, music, drama, and general life events. For instance, while 'finale' might fit a concert, 'endgame' is perfectly suited for a strategic game. Recognizing which specific 'end stage' the clue hints at, given its letter count and any crossing letters, is crucial for success.
Being familiar with common phrases and single words that describe the conclusion of an event will significantly aid your puzzle-solving. Sometimes the answer is straightforward, other times it requires a bit of lateral thinking or a deeper dive into synonyms for 'end,' 'climax,' or 'conclusion' in the context of competition.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the context: Does the clue hint at a specific type of contest (e.g., a race, a play, a game of chess)? This can narrow down the potential answers for "last stages."
- Think of synonyms for 'end': Brainstorm various words that mean 'conclusion,' 'final part,' 'climax,' or 'resolution.' Words like 'finish,' 'close,' 'culmination,' or 'wrap-up' can often lead you to the correct answer.
- Check for common crossword tropes: Many crosswords reuse specific words or phrases for common concepts. Over time, you'll recognize patterns for clues related to beginnings, middles, and ends of events.
- Utilize crossing letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is the most reliable way to confirm or deduce an answer, especially for trickier clues like those involving 'stages.'
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'last stages of a contest' typically mean in a crossword?
It refers to the concluding part, the final phase, or the critical moments of a competition where the outcome is decided. Common answers include terms like FINALE, ENDGAME, or HOMESTRETCH, focusing on the end of a race, game, or event.
Are there different types of 'end stages' in crosswords?
Yes, clues can vary. Some might refer to the final moments (e.g., 'crunch time'), others to the very end or conclusion (e.g., 'finale'), or the final decisive part (e.g., 'playoffs' or 'tiebreaker' though these are usually specific). Always consider the letter count and surrounding letters.
How can I get better at solving contest-related crossword clues?
Familiarize yourself with common sports and game terminology for different stages. Pay attention to synonyms for 'end,' 'final,' 'climax,' or 'conclusion.' Practice recognizing common crossword patterns and short phrases that indicate the ending of an event.