on the whole crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "on the whole crossword", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "on the whole crossword" by Letter Count
7 Letters
OVERALL: Generally speaking, considering everything without exception.
BROADLY: In general terms; not going into specifics, covering a wide scope.
8 Letters
ASAWHOLE: Means considering all parts together as a complete entity.
9 Letters
GENERALLY: Indicates something that is usually the case or applies widely.
More About "on the whole crossword"
"On the whole" is a common English idiom that implies considering all aspects or points, resulting in a general conclusion or overview. It's often used when summing up a situation, giving an overall impression, or stating something that is generally true, even if there might be minor exceptions. In crosswords, this phrase is a classic clue type for answers that convey a sense of generality, totality, or a broad perspective.
Crossword constructors love "on the whole" because it allows for a variety of synonyms across different word lengths, testing a solver's vocabulary for nuances of meaning. Solutions typically revolve around words like OVERALL, BROADLY, GENERALLY, or ASAWHOLE, all of which capture the essence of a holistic view. Understanding this common idiom is key to unlocking many related crossword puzzles.
When you encounter such a clue, think about what encompasses the entirety or the majority of something. Is it about a general trend, a summary, or a complete picture? The precise answer will depend on the number of letters required by the grid, but the underlying concept remains consistent.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "on the whole," consider the subtle differences between potential synonyms. Is the clue asking for "mostly" (LARGELY) or "everything combined" (ASAWHOLE)?
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters in your potential answer against the grid. This is the fastest way to eliminate incorrect guesses, especially for common clues with multiple possible answers.
- Look for Related Clues: Sometimes, another clue in the puzzle might hint at a similar concept or share letters with an answer you're considering, providing crucial confirmation.
- Consider Common Crossword Idioms: Many idioms, like "on the whole," appear frequently. Familiarize yourself with common idiomatic expressions and their typical crossword answers to speed up your solving time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "on the whole" mean in a crossword clue?
"On the whole" is an idiomatic phrase meaning "generally speaking," "mostly," or "considering everything." Crossword setters use it to elicit synonyms like OVERALL, GENERALLY, BROADLY, or ASAWHOLE, focusing on the overarching sense rather than specifics.
How can I find synonyms for idiomatic phrases in crosswords?
To solve clues with idioms, focus on the core meaning of the phrase. Break it down to simpler concepts. For "on the whole," think "overall" or "mostly." Consulting an idiomatic dictionary or thesaurus can also be highly effective.
Are "on the whole" and "all in all" interchangeable in crosswords?
Yes, in many crossword contexts, "on the whole" and "all in all" are considered interchangeable. Both phrases convey a similar meaning of "considering everything," "overall," or "generally speaking," making them common targets for similar solutions.