small in quantity crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving crossword puzzles! Below you'll find all the possible answers for the clue "small in quantity crossword clue," meticulously organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "small in quantity crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FEW: Indicating a very limited number or amount.
4 Letters
MERE: Signifying only what is specified and no more, often implying insignificance or a small amount.
TINY: Extremely small in size, amount, or degree.
6 Letters
LITTLE: Small in size, amount, or degree; not much.
SCARCE: In short supply; insufficient for the demand.
MEAGER: Lacking in quantity or quality; sparse or scanty.
More About "small in quantity crossword clue"
The clue "small in quantity" is a classic in crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary and understanding of synonyms. Words like FEW, MERE, LITTLE, and SCARCE all convey a sense of limitation, scarcity, or insignificance, making them prime candidates for this type of clue. Recognizing these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer, especially when multiple possibilities fit the letter count.
Crossword setters love to play with words that have subtle differences in meaning. While FEW and LITTLE both denote a small amount, their usage (countable vs. uncountable nouns) can be the deciding factor. MERE, on the other hand, often implies not just a small amount but also a lack of importance or significance. By expanding your understanding of these subtle distinctions, you'll be better equipped to tackle not just this clue, but a wide range of similar ones in future puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often use indirect language. For "small in quantity," think of words that mean the opposite of "abundant" or "many."
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters in the answer you're considering. This is the most crucial filter for narrowing down possibilities.
- Consider the Nuance: Does the clue imply a scarcity (SCARCE, MEAGER), an insignificance (MERE), or just a low number (FEW, LITTLE)? This can help you pick the perfect word.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use them to confirm or deny potential answers for "small in quantity."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a word 'small in quantity' in crosswords?
In crosswords, a word is considered 'small in quantity' if it directly or synonymously refers to a limited amount, size, or degree. Clues often use phrases like 'not many,' 'a tiny bit,' 'limited,' or 'scant.' The key is to think about words that convey scarcity, fewness, or minimal scale.
Are there common word lengths for 'small in quantity' answers?
Yes, common answers like FEW (3 letters), MERE (4 letters), TINY (4 letters), LITTLE (6 letters), SCARCE (6 letters), and MEAGER (6 letters) are frequently encountered. The length is crucial for fitting the grid, so always check the number of boxes provided in the puzzle.
How can I differentiate between similar answers like 'FEW' and 'LITTLE'?
While 'FEW' and 'LITTLE' both imply small quantities, 'FEW' is typically used for countable nouns (e.g., 'few books'), whereas 'LITTLE' is for uncountable nouns (e.g., 'little water') or general size/degree. In crosswords, the nuance of the clue or intersecting letters will often guide you to the correct choice. 'MERE' implies insignificance, while 'SCARCE' or 'MEAGER' suggests insufficiency.