What does 'very very small' imply in a crossword clue?

In crossword puzzles, 'very very small' often points to answers that are diminutive, like WEE, TINY, or MICRO. The repetition of 'very' emphasizes an extreme degree of smallness, sometimes hinting at a less common synonym or a more scientific term for 'small'.

How can I identify the correct letter count for 'very very small' solutions?

The grid itself will provide the number of letters required for the answer. Once you have a strong candidate word, check if its length matches the available spaces in the crossword grid. If it doesn't, consider synonyms or alternative words that fit the given length.

Are there common themes for 'small' clues in crosswords?

Yes, 'small' clues can often lead to answers related to size (e.g., MINI, PINT), age (e.g., YOUTH, INFANT), or a sense of insignificance (e.g., TRIFLE, PETTY). Context from other clues in the puzzle can help narrow down the theme.

very very small crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and detailed explanations for the clue "very very small crossword," broken down by letter count to help you complete your puzzle with ease.

Solutions for "very very small crossword" by Letter Count

3 Letters

WEE: A charming and informal term meaning very small or tiny, often used to describe children or small objects.

4 Letters

TINY: The most direct and common synonym for very small, implying something of exceedingly minute size.

5 Letters

MICRO: Often used as a prefix, but also as a standalone word, 'micro' refers to something extremely small, often on a microscopic level.

More About "very very small crossword"

The phrase "very very small" in a crossword clue is designed to guide solvers towards words that denote extreme minuteness, beyond just 'small'. This emphasis often points to colloquial terms, scientific prefixes, or more poetic adjectives. Crossword setters love to play with redundancy and intensity to differentiate clues that might otherwise be ambiguous.

Clues like these test a solver's vocabulary depth, pushing them beyond the most obvious synonyms. Understanding the subtle nuances between 'small', 'tiny', 'wee', and 'micro' is key to unlocking the correct answer. Sometimes, the context of the puzzle, such as a theme related to measurements or children, can further hint at the intended solution.

Remember that crosswords often use common language. While "microscopic" or "infinitesimal" might come to mind, shorter, more common words are usually preferred unless the grid length dictates otherwise. Always consider the most straightforward and frequently used terms first when dealing with such clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze Repetition: When a clue repeats a word like "very very small," it's a strong indicator that the answer isn't just 'small' but something significantly more so, pushing towards extreme examples of the adjective.
Consider Word Lengths: Always check the number of boxes available in the grid. This is your primary constraint and will quickly eliminate many possibilities, leaving only words that fit precisely.
Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm a list of synonyms for "small," then for "very small," and then for "extremely small." Sometimes, thinking of antonyms can also spark ideas (e.g., what's the opposite of gigantic?).
Context is King: Look at surrounding clues, especially if they are part of a theme. A theme about miniature items or scientific units could confirm a 'MICRO' answer, while a lighthearted theme might suggest 'WEE'.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean if a clue repeats a word like "very very"?

Repeating a word, such as "very very," in a crossword clue is a common technique to emphasize an extreme degree of the adjective. It's a strong hint that the solution should be an intense or superlative form of the word, rather than just a mild one. For "very very small," it pushes you towards answers like TINY, WEE, or MICRO, indicating something at the absolute minimum end of the size spectrum.

How do I know which answer to choose if multiple words fit the meaning?

The key to choosing the correct answer when multiple options fit the meaning lies primarily in the letter count provided by the crossword grid. If "very very small" could be WEE, TINY, or MICRO, the number of blank squares in the puzzle will dictate which one is correct. Additionally, cross-referencing with intersecting words can help confirm your choice, as those letters must also fit into their respective words.

Can "very very small" ever refer to something abstract, not just physical size?

While "very very small" most commonly refers to physical dimensions, in cryptic or more advanced crosswords, clues can sometimes be metaphorical. For instance, it might refer to a 'very very small' chance, hinting at words like SLIM or MINIMAL. However, for a straightforward clue like this, a physical size reference is the most probable intention. Always consider the literal meaning first, then explore abstract interpretations if the literal answers don't fit.