virtually crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "virtually," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct answer for your puzzle.
Solutions for "virtually crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
NEARLY: Meaning almost, or very nearly, often used interchangeably with virtually.
ALMOST: Indicates very nearly, but not completely; a direct synonym for virtually.
11 Letters
ESSENTIALLY: At its core, fundamentally; implies something is virtually true in its basic nature.
More About "virtually crossword clue"
"Virtually" is a common adverb in crosswords, often requiring solvers to think about approximations or fundamental truths rather than exact matches. It can be a tricky clue because its meaning can lean towards 'almost' (e.g., virtually impossible) or 'in effect' (e.g., virtually a dictator). Understanding this dual nature is key to selecting the correct answer.
When you encounter 'virtually' in a crossword, always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters you already have. This will narrow down whether the setter is looking for a shorter synonym like NEARLY or ALMOST, or a longer, more conceptual answer such as ESSENTIALLY or PRACTICALLY. Paying attention to the context of other clues in the puzzle can also provide valuable hints.
This clue often tests a solver's vocabulary of adverbs and their nuanced meanings. Keeping a mental list of common synonyms for 'virtually' can significantly speed up your solving process and help you overcome this common crossword challenge with ease.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Part of Speech: Recognize 'virtually' as an adverb. This limits your answer options to other adverbs, helping you avoid noun or verb traps.
- Consider Nuances of Meaning: 'Virtually' can mean "almost" or "in essence/effect." Try both interpretations to see which fits the letter count and intersecting clues.
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Quickly list words that mean 'almost' (nearly, almost) and words that mean 'in effect' (essentially, practically, effectively).
- Use Cross-References: If you have a few letters from intersecting words, use them to quickly identify the most probable answer from your brainstormed list.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'virtually' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'virtually' often hints at words meaning 'almost', 'nearly', 'practically', or 'in essence'. It suggests a close approximation rather than an exact match, prompting solvers to look for synonyms that convey a sense of being very close to something without being absolute.
Are there common synonyms for 'virtually' used as answers in puzzles?
Yes, some of the most common answers include NEARLY, ALMOST, PRACTICALLY, ESSENTIALLY, and EFFECTIVELY. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues in the puzzle.
How can I improve my clue-solving for adverbs like 'virtually'?
To improve, focus on identifying the part of speech (e.g., adverb). Then, brainstorm synonyms that match that part of speech. Consider nuances – 'virtually' can mean 'almost' or 'in effect'. Practicing with similar adverb clues and expanding your vocabulary of synonyms will greatly help.