very large number crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "very large number" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of all possible answers, complete with explanations and categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "very large number crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
GOOGOL: A specific very large number equal to 10 to the power of 100.
MYRIAD: An extremely large, indefinite number or amount, often used colloquially.
7 Letters
ZILLION: An indefinite, extremely large number, commonly used to indicate an exaggeratedly large quantity.
BILLION: A specific large number, 10^9 (one thousand million) in the short scale or 10^12 (one million million) in the long scale.
MILLION: A specific large number, 10^6 (one thousand thousands).
8 Letters
TRILLION: A specific large number, 10^12 (one million million) in the short scale or 10^18 in the long scale.
9 Letters
GAZILLION: An informal, hyperbolically large number, similar to zillion, indicating an extremely great but indefinite quantity.
More About "very large number crossword clue"
The clue "very large number" is a popular one in crosswords because it allows for a range of answers, from informal colloquialisms to specific mathematical terms. When encountering this clue, setters often play on the ambiguity, requiring solvers to consider both the letter count and any surrounding context or intersecting letters.
Beyond common terms like 'million' or 'billion,' crosswords frequently feature hyperboles like 'zillion' or 'gazillion,' which are not precise mathematical figures but widely understood expressions for an immense quantity. Occasionally, more specific and less common terms like 'googol' (10^100) might appear, challenging solvers with a deeper dive into numerical terminology.
Understanding the subtle differences in these "very large numbers" can be key. For instance, 'myriad' implies an indefinitely large number of things, while 'trillion' refers to a precise power of ten. Always keep the available answer length in mind, as it's the most crucial determinant when facing such a versatile clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always prioritize the number of letters you need. This is the most effective way to narrow down the options for clues like "very large number."
- Consider Context: Look at the theme of the puzzle or other clues. Does it lean towards informal language, or is it more formal and scientific? This can hint at whether the answer is 'zillion' or 'googol.'
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from other completed clues, use them as anchors. This will quickly reveal if the answer is 'BILLION' or 'ZILLION,' especially for answers with the same length.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love to use synonyms or less common terms. Don't limit yourself to just 'million' or 'billion' when thinking of large numbers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a number 'very large' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'very large number' often refers to informal terms like 'zillion' or 'gazillion,' or specific large scale numbers like 'trillion' or 'googol.' The context of the clue and other intersecting words usually helps narrow it down.
Are 'zillion' and 'gazillion' real numbers?
While 'zillion' and 'gazillion' are not formal mathematical terms, they are widely recognized informal expressions used to describe an indeterminately large quantity, and they frequently appear as answers in crosswords.
How do I determine the exact answer for a 'very large number' clue?
Look for the number of letters required for the answer, as this is crucial in crosswords. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue; sometimes it implies an informal term, while other times it might hint at a formal large number like 'googol' or 'trillion.'