How can I determine the correct answer for 'just' when multiple options fit the letter count?

To narrow down the possibilities, always cross-reference with intersecting words. The letters from solved intersecting clues will help eliminate incorrect answers. Also, consider the overall theme of the puzzle or the common phrases associated with the clue's potential meanings.

Is 'just' typically a short or long answer in crosswords?

'Just' frequently leads to shorter answers (3-5 letters) like FAIR, ONLY, MERE, or RIGHT. However, it's also common for longer answers like BARELY (6 letters), EXACTLY (7 letters), or RECENTLY (8 letters) to be the solution. Always check the number of available boxes.

crossword clue just – All Crossword Answers

Q: What are the common meanings of 'just' in crosswords?

The clue 'just' is highly versatile in crosswords. It can commonly mean 'fair' (equitable), 'only' (solely), 'mere' (nothing more than), 'right' (correct/timely), 'barely' (scarcely), 'exactly' (precisely), or 'recently' (a short time ago). The specific meaning depends on the context of the puzzle.

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword clue just", you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.

Solutions for "crossword clue just" by Letter Count

4 Letters

FAIR: Meaning equitable or impartial, as in "a just decision."

ONLY: Meaning solely or exclusively, as in "just me and you."

MERE: Meaning nothing more than or simply, as in "just a scratch."

5 Letters

RIGHT: Meaning correct or proper, or precisely at the moment, as in "just on time."

6 Letters

BARELY: Meaning scarcely or only by a small amount, as in "just managed to escape."

7 Letters

EXACTLY: Meaning precisely or accurately, as in "just what I was thinking."

8 Letters

RECENTLY: Meaning a short time ago, as in "he just called."

More About "crossword clue just"

"Just" is a deceptively simple word that carries a wide range of meanings, making it a favorite (and sometimes frustrating) clue for crossword setters. Its versatility stems from its use as an adjective (meaning fair or righteous), an adverb (meaning precisely, only, scarcely, or recently), and even in idiomatic expressions. This broad semantic field means that when you encounter "just" in a crossword, you must consider the number of letters and any intersecting words very carefully to pinpoint the correct interpretation.

Often, the challenge lies in distinguishing between its temporal meaning (e.g., "just happened") and its qualitative meaning (e.g., "a just ruler"). The brevity of the clue itself often provides little additional context, pushing solvers to rely heavily on letter counts and established crossword conventions. Familiarity with common synonyms for each nuance of "just" is key to mastering this particular clue.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Count Your Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This is the first and most critical filter for any clue, especially one as varied as "just."
Check Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by crossing words are your best friends. They can quickly eliminate many potential answers for "just" that fit the initial letter count.
Consider Common Synonyms: Think about the most frequent synonyms for each meaning of "just." For "fair," consider RIGHT, EQUAL. For "only," think SOLELY, MERE. For "recently," consider LATELY, ANON. This helps expand your mental dictionary for the clue.
Think Temporally vs. Qualitatively: As mentioned, "just" can refer to time or quality. If the puzzle has a temporal theme or other time-related clues, lean towards answers like RECENTLY. If the theme is about justice or fairness, consider FAIR.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common meanings of "just" in crosswords?

The clue "just" is highly versatile. It often means "fair" or "equitable," "only" or "solely," "precisely" or "exactly," or "recently" (as in "just happened"). Its interpretation depends heavily on the letter count and surrounding clues.

How can I determine the correct answer for "just" when there are multiple possibilities?

Look at the number of letters required for the answer. Then, check intersecting words. The letters from intersecting words will narrow down the options significantly. Also, consider the puzzle's theme or the setter's typical style for common phrases.

Is "just" often a short answer?

Yes, "just" frequently leads to shorter answers like FAIR, ONLY, MERE (all 4 letters), or RIGHT (5 letters). However, longer answers like EXACTLY (7 letters) or RECENTLY (8 letters) are also common, so always consider the available space in the grid.