in an unusual way crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "in an unusual way" for your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "in an unusual way crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ODDLY: In a peculiar or strange manner. A very common answer for this type of clue.
6 Letters
RARELY: Not often; seldom. This suggests an unusual frequency, fitting the clue.
8 Letters
UNIQUELY: In a way that is unique or distinct from others, implying an unusual characteristic.
9 Letters
STRANGELY: In an odd or unfamiliar manner. A direct synonym for 'unusual.'
10 Letters
UNCOMMONLY: In a way that is not common; unusually. A precise match for the clue's meaning.
PECULIARLY: In a strange or unusual way; oddly. Another strong adverbial match for the clue.
More About "in an unusual way crossword clue"
The clue "in an unusual way" is a classic crossword staple that nearly always points to an adverb. These are words that describe how something is done, and they frequently end in -LY. The challenge often lies in determining the precise synonym for "unusual" that fits the available letter count and intersecting letters in your puzzle.
Common themes around this clue revolve around concepts of strangeness, infrequency, distinctiveness, or abnormality. Crossword constructors love to use these types of adverbial clues because there are many suitable synonyms, allowing for flexibility in puzzle design. Always consider the nuance of the word chosen – is it 'unusual' in terms of frequency (rarely), quality (uniquely), or manner (strangely)?
By understanding the grammatical class (adverb) and the core meaning (deviation from the norm), you can more effectively predict and confirm answers for similar clues in future puzzles. It's a fundamental concept for improving your crossword solving speed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Identify the Part of Speech: Clues like "in an unusual way" strongly suggest an adverb (ending in -LY). Recognizing this immediately narrows down your options.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: Brainstorm different words for 'unusual' (e.g., strange, rare, odd, unique, peculiar) and then convert them into adverbs. The specific context might favor one nuance over another.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These are your most powerful tools for confirming or eliminating potential answers.
- Think About Common Crossword Answers: Many common adverbs appear frequently in crosswords. If a short answer slot comes up, words like ODDLY or RARELY are often prime candidates.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'in an unusual way' typically mean in crosswords?
'In an unusual way' almost always points to an adverb, a word ending in -LY, that describes an specific action performed in a manner that deviates from the norm. Think about synonyms for 'strange,' 'rare,' or 'unique.'
Are there common prefixes or suffixes for 'unusual way' answers?
The most common suffix will be '-LY' as the clue suggests an adverb. Prefixes often include 'UN-' (unusually, uncommonly) or 'PECULIAR-'.
How do I narrow down answers when 'in an unusual way' has many possibilities?
To narrow down, check the letter count required for the slot, any intersecting letters from other clues, and consider the overall theme or specific wordplay if it's a themed puzzle. The context of the puzzle's constructor can also sometimes hint at a preferred synonym.