precipitously crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "precipitously crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below, you'll find solutions along with clear explanations to enhance your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "precipitously crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
STEEPLY: In a very steep manner; often used for angles or gradients.
SHARPLY: Suddenly and distinctly, often referring to a rapid change or decline.
RAPIDLY: Happening or moving quickly; with great speed.
8 Letters
ABRUPTLY: Suddenly and unexpectedly; in a rude or curt manner.
SUDDENLY: Quickly and unexpectedly.
More About "precipitously crossword clue"
The adverb "precipitously" describes something that occurs in a sudden, sharp, or very steep manner. In crosswords, clues using this word often point to synonyms that convey a sense of rapid change, a lack of gradualness, or an extreme angle. Common contexts might include a stock market 'falling precipitously,' a path 'climbing precipitously,' or a decision being made 'precipitously.' Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer.
Crossword setters love words like "precipitously" because they offer multiple avenues for interpretation, leading to various possible answers depending on the specific puzzle's theme or the adjacent letters. Always consider if the clue is asking for a synonym related to speed, a synonym related to steepness, or a synonym related to suddenness. This analysis will help narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: "Precipitously" is an adverb. This means your answer will almost certainly be an adverb, likely ending in -LY. This instantly eliminates many words and focuses your search.
- Consider Nuances of Meaning: Does the clue imply speed (rapidly, suddenly), steepness (steeply, sharply), or abruptness (abruptly)? Thinking about these sub-meanings can guide you to the perfect fit.
- Look at Surrounding Clues/Letters: Even if you have a perfect synonym in mind, it must fit the letter pattern. Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm or eliminate possibilities.
- Use a Thesaurus (Carefully): A quick check of a thesaurus for "precipitously" can provide a list of synonyms, but always cross-reference them with typical crossword answers and your puzzle's letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'precipitously' typically mean in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'precipitously' often refers to something happening very steeply, suddenly, or abruptly. Common contexts include rapid declines (e.g., prices falling precipitously), steep inclines, or sudden changes.
How can I find synonyms for adverbs like 'precipitously' in puzzles?
To find adverbial synonyms, think about the core meaning (sudden, steep, rapid) and look for other adverbs ending in -LY. Consider prefixes like 'un-' or 'in-' that might indicate a lack of gradualness. Also, think about the context: is it about speed, steepness, or unexpectedness?
Are there common word lengths for answers to 'precipitously'?
Answers for 'precipitously' can vary in length, but common lengths often include 7 or 8 letters (e.g., STEEPLY, SHARPLY, ABRUPTLY, SUDDENLY, RAPIDLY). Shorter answers might exist depending on the nuance implied by the specific puzzle.