on the double crossword puzzle – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "on the double", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find common solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "on the double crossword puzzle" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ASAP: Acronym for "As Soon As Possible", indicating extreme urgency often used in official contexts.
FAST: Directly implies speed and quickness, aligning with the meaning of 'on the double'.
7 Letters
QUICKLY: Meaning at a fast speed or in a short time, directly translating the idea of 'on the double'.
RAPIDLY: Signifies very quickly, at a great rate, a close synonym for the clue.
9 Letters
INSTANTLY: Implies something happening without any delay, immediately, fulfilling the 'on the double' requirement.
POSTHASTE: An older term meaning with great speed or urgency, frequently seen in crosswords for this clue.
More About "on the double crossword puzzle"
"On the double" is a common idiomatic expression that originates from military commands, instructing someone to move with immediate speed or at a running pace. In the context of crosswords, it consistently points to synonyms that convey urgency, swiftness, or immediacy. Puzzle constructors often use such familiar phrases because they offer a clear, yet sometimes multi-faceted, path to a solution, relying on general knowledge of idioms rather than obscure vocabulary.
Understanding the nuances of such clues is vital. While "on the double" clearly means "quickly," the precise answer often depends on the number of letters required and whether the constructor is leaning towards a modern term (like ASAP) or a more classic crossword staple (like POSTHASTE). This variety keeps solvers on their toes and makes the process of filling in the grid both challenging and rewarding.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters available in the grid for your answer. This is the single most important constraint that will help you narrow down potential solutions for clues like "on the double".
- Consider Synonyms and Acronyms: For clues implying speed or urgency, think broadly. Besides common synonyms, consider abbreviations (like ASAP) and less common but contextually relevant archaic terms (like POSTHASTE).
- Contextualize the Clue: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can offer hints about whether a formal, informal, or archaic synonym for speed is preferred. Pay attention to the overall tone of the puzzle.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'on the double' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'on the double' is a common phrase clueing words that mean 'immediately,' 'quickly,' or 'with great urgency.' It's often used to prompt synonyms for speed or immediacy.
Are there common traps with 'on the double' clues?
Yes, sometimes the puzzle setter might use a less common synonym like 'POSTHASTE' or an acronym like 'ASAP.' Always consider both direct synonyms for speed and terms implying immediacy or urgency, and pay close attention to the number of letters required.
How can 'on the double' be used differently in various puzzles?
While typically straightforward, 'on the double' can occasionally appear in cryptic clues where it might hint at a doubling of a letter or word, or refer to military commands, adding a layer of complexity. However, in standard crosswords, it almost always signifies speed.