very badly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Seeking answers for 'very badly' in your crossword puzzle? You've landed on the right page! We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "very badly crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ILL: Often used to describe a state of being unwell, but can also mean poorly or defectively, fitting 'very badly'.
6 Letters
POORLY: In a poor or inferior manner; badly. Directly addresses the 'badly' aspect of the clue.
7 Letters
AWFULLY: Extremely or very much; used to intensify an adjective, implying something done in a very bad way.
8 Letters
TERRIBLY: In a very bad, unpleasant, or serious way. A strong synonym for 'very badly'.
More About "very badly crossword clue"
The clue "very badly" is a classic example of an adverbial phrase often encountered in crosswords. It calls for a word that describes an action or state performed to a high degree of poorness or intensity. Setters love these clues because they allow for a range of answers, from simple, direct synonyms to more nuanced words that imply an extreme negative condition. The key is to consider words that can act as intensifiers or that describe an action performed in an undesirable manner.
Words like 'AWFULLY' or 'TERRIBLY,' while seemingly just meaning 'very,' also carry the connotation of something being done in an unpleasant or severe way. On the other hand, 'POORLY' is a more direct synonym for 'badly,' focusing purely on the quality of performance. The diversity in possible answers makes "very badly" a challenging yet rewarding clue to solve, often requiring you to think beyond the most obvious dictionary definitions.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and intensifiers: 'Very badly' isn't just about poor quality; it can also be about extreme intensity (e.g., 'awfully' as in 'awfully good' but also 'awfully done').
- Check the part of speech: The clue is an adverbial phrase, so your answer will almost certainly be an adverb. Look for words ending in '-LY' but also remember irregular adverbs like 'ILL'.
- Use crossing letters: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting clues, use them to narrow down the possible options. This is crucial for distinguishing between multiple valid answers of the same length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of answers should I expect for 'very badly' in crosswords?
For 'very badly,' you should anticipate adverbs that describe actions or states performed in a poor, severe, or intense negative manner. Answers often range from short words like 'ILL' to longer, more descriptive terms such as 'TERRIBLY' or 'AWFULLY'.
Why do crosswords sometimes use synonyms like 'ill' for 'very badly'?
Crossword setters frequently use synonyms and figurative meanings to make clues more challenging. While 'ill' typically means unwell, it can also mean 'in an unsatisfactory or imperfect way,' thus connecting to 'badly.' Context and letter count are key.
Are there common traps when solving clues like 'very badly'?
A common trap is focusing only on the most literal or common meaning. 'Very badly' could imply intensity ('AWFULLY') rather than just poor quality. Always consider synonyms, homophones, and double meanings. Also, check if it's an adverb modifying a verb or an adjective describing a state.