wide open crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "wide open crossword" and need a hand, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "wide open crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
VAST: Meaning very large in extent, like a vast plain, fitting 'wide open' in scale.
5 Letters
BLANK: Referring to an empty, open space, or a wide, unmarked area.
7 Letters
EXPOSED: Uncovered and vulnerable, implying a lack of concealment or being 'wide open' to view.
8 Letters
SWEEPING: Covering a wide area or having a broad range, as in sweeping views or changes.
More About "wide open crossword"
The clue "wide open" is a classic example of a phrase that can have multiple interpretations in crosswords, often requiring you to consider both literal and metaphorical meanings. It can describe a physical space that is expansive and unobstructed, such as a 'wide open field' or 'wide open plains'. In this context, answers like VAST or BLANK are highly appropriate, suggesting an absence of limits or content.
Beyond the literal, "wide open" can also convey a state of vulnerability or receptiveness. For instance, being 'wide open to attack' implies a lack of defense, making EXPOSED a fitting solution. Similarly, 'wide open possibilities' suggests a state of being limitless or unrestricted, aligning with terms like SWEEPING or UNGUARDED. The ambiguity is part of the challenge, prompting solvers to think broadly about the word's applications.
Understanding these nuances is key to cracking such clues. Always consider the setter's intent: Are they referring to physical breadth, a lack of restriction, or a state of defenselessness? The surrounding letters you've already filled in will often provide the necessary context to pinpoint the exact meaning and the correct answer among the many possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the other clues in the grid, especially those that intersect with "wide open". Even one letter can eliminate many potential answers.
- Consider Synonyms: Think of all possible synonyms for "wide open" in different contexts. Brainstorm words related to emptiness, vastness, vulnerability, or freedom.
- Check Word Length: Use the number of letters as your primary filter. If you need a 4-letter word, you can immediately rule out 7 or 8-letter possibilities, significantly narrowing your search.
- Think Figuratively: Crossword setters love wordplay. "Wide open" might not always be literal. Could it refer to a situation, an attitude, or a concept rather than a physical space?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'wide open' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'wide open' typically refers to something expansive, unrestricted, unguarded, or empty. It can denote a large physical space (like a 'wide open field'), a state of being vulnerable ('wide open to attack'), or a lack of constraint ('wide open possibilities'). The context of the surrounding clues is crucial for determining the precise meaning.
Are there common synonyms for 'wide open' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related concepts often found as answers include: VAST, BLANK, CLEAR, FREE, EXPOSED, UNGUARDED, LIMITLESS, EXTENSIVE, SWEEPING, or even GULF (for a wide gap). The specific answer will depend on the required letter count and any crossing letters.
How can the number of letters help solve 'wide open' clues?
The letter count is your primary guide. For instance, if you need a 4-letter word for 'wide open,' VAST or FREE are strong contenders. A 7-letter word might point to EXPOSED. Always consider the length in conjunction with any letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues, as this will narrow down the possibilities significantly.