as a whole crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "as a whole," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back to solving your puzzle.
Solutions for "as a whole crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
INALL: When everything is counted or considered; altogether.
6 Letters
WHOLLY: Completely; entirely; without reservation.
7 Letters
TOTALLY: Absolutely; completely; entirely.
ENMASSE: In a group; all together (from French).
8 Letters
ENTIRELY: Fully; completely; without exception.
10 Letters
ALTOGETHER: Including everything; collectively; completely.
More About "as a whole crossword clue"
"As a whole" is a common crossword clue that seeks an adverb or a phrase expressing completeness, entirety, or the collective sum of something. The answers often denote that nothing has been left out, or that something is being considered in its entirety, rather than in parts. This type of clue frequently appears in various puzzle difficulties, from daily quick crosswords to more complex cryptic ones.
Understanding the nuance of synonyms like "wholly," "entirely," and "totally" is key. While often interchangeable, a seasoned constructor might use them to fit specific letter patterns or to subtly guide solvers towards a less obvious answer. Consider the context of other clues in the puzzle to help narrow down the possibilities when multiple answers share similar meanings but differ in length.
The flexibility of this clue means solutions can range from shorter, direct synonyms to longer, more descriptive terms or even French loanwords like "ENMASSE," which imply a group acting in unison. Always cross-reference with intersecting words to confirm your choice, ensuring a seamless solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Letter Count: Always check the number of boxes available for the answer. This is your primary filter for possible solutions for "as a whole."
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that mean the same as "as a whole" but also their opposites. Sometimes, clues are designed to trick you.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: The letters from solved intersecting clues are invaluable. They will either confirm or deny your potential answers for "as a whole."
- Check for Common Phrases: Some clues, like "as a whole," might have idiomatic answers that are common phrases rather than single words (e.g., IN ALL).
- Don't Be Afraid to Guess (and Erase): If you have a strong suspicion, lightly pencil in an answer. If it doesn't fit with intersecting words, you can easily erase and try another.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'as a whole' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'as a whole' typically refers to something completely, entirely, or collectively. It often seeks adverbs that convey completeness or totality, such as WHOLLY, TOTALLY, or ENTIRELY.
Are there common letter lengths for 'as a whole' answers?
Yes, common lengths vary. You'll often find answers like 'WHOLLY' (6 letters), 'TOTALLY' (7 letters), 'ENTIRELY' (8 letters), and 'ALTOGETHER' (10 letters). Shorter answers like 'INALL' (5 letters) can also appear.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'wholly' and 'entirely'?
The surrounding letters in the crossword grid are your best guide. Both words are synonyms, but their different lengths and letter patterns will help them fit only into specific slots. Pay attention to intersecting words to confirm.