only just crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "only just" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "only just crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
BARELY: This answer means by a very small margin; only just sufficient or almost not. Often implies a struggle or minimal success.
HARDLY: Similar to 'barely', indicating something is almost not the case, or only by a very small degree. For example, "he hardly noticed the change."
8 Letters
NARROWLY: To succeed, fail, or escape by only a small margin. This word perfectly captures the essence of "only just" when referring to a close call.
More About "only just crossword clue"
The phrase "only just" in a crossword clue is a classic way for setters to prompt answers that convey a sense of minimal achievement, a tight squeeze, or an outcome that barely occurred. It's not about the word "just" itself, but the preceding "only" that emphasizes the proximity to a threshold or limit.
Clues like "only just" require puzzlers to think about adverbs that express slightness, scarcity, or closeness. The challenge often lies in matching the precise nuance of the clue with an answer that fits the available letters. Recognizing these subtle indicators is key to unlocking many crossword solutions.
When you encounter "only just," consider scenarios where an action or state is achieved with very little room to spare. This perspective can help you move beyond literal interpretations and find the more idiomatic or descriptive words that crossword compilers favor.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the surrounding clues and any letters you've already filled in. These can provide crucial hints about the specific word needed, even for common phrases like "only just."
- Consider Letter Count First: If you have a few options for a clue like "only just," prioritize the ones that match the exact letter count in your grid. This immediately narrows down your choices.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Crossword clues often use indirect or evocative language. For "only just," consider words that describe the *feeling* of barely making it, rather than just strict synonyms.
- Check for Common Crossword Anagrams/Homophones: While less likely for "only just" directly, remember that setters might use wordplay. Keep an eye out for potential tricks, especially in more advanced puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'only just' mean in a crossword clue?
'Only just' in a crossword clue typically refers to something that happened or exists by a very narrow margin. It implies a sense of minimal sufficiency, a close call, or something almost not happening. Common synonyms in this context include 'barely', 'hardly', or 'narrowly'.
How do I determine the correct answer length for 'only just'?
The correct answer length for 'only just' will depend on the puzzle you're solving and the number of letters provided for the answer. Common lengths are 6 letters (like BARELY or HARDLY) or 8 letters (like NARROWLY). Always check the grid to match the available spaces with the possible answers.
Are there other similar clues to 'only just'?
Yes, clues like 'Scarcely', 'By a hair', 'With little room to spare', 'Just barely', or 'By a whisker' are very similar in meaning to 'only just' and might lead to the same or related answers. Understanding these nuances can help you solve tricky clues.