almost crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "almost crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "almost crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
NIGH: An archaic or poetic term meaning near or almost.
SEMI: A prefix meaning 'half' or 'partially', often used to imply 'almost'.
5 Letters
QUASI: From Latin, meaning "as if" or "almost"; indicates a resemblance or approximation.
6 Letters
NEARLY: Indicates something is very close to happening or being true.
BARELY: Means by a very small margin; almost not. Often used in the sense of "just about."
ALLBUT: Means almost; very nearly.
9 Letters
VIRTUALLY: Means almost entirely; practically.
More About "almost crossword clue"
"Almost" is a common and versatile word in crossword clues, challenging solvers to think of synonyms, partial concepts, or words that convey a sense of incompleteness. Clues using "almost" can range from straightforward synonyms like "nearly" to more nuanced interpretations requiring knowledge of prefixes or less common vocabulary. The key is to understand that the answer will represent something that is very close to, but not quite, the stated concept.
Often, "almost" clues test a solver's ability to consider various shades of meaning. For example, "barely" suggests a minimal achievement, while "virtually" implies a practical equivalence. Recognizing these subtle differences, along with considering the precise letter count, is crucial for unlocking the correct solution. Our comprehensive list provides a range of possibilities to cover various contexts and puzzle styles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Brainstorm Synonyms: For clues like "almost," always start by listing direct synonyms such as NEARLY, BARELY, and ALLBUT. These are often the most straightforward solutions.
- Consider Prefixes and Suffixes: Many words use prefixes like QUASI- (meaning 'as if' or 'almost') or SEMI- (meaning 'half') to convey a sense of being 'almost' something. Think about how these can fit the letter count.
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters in the answer is a critical hint. Use it to narrow down your list of potential solutions. For example, if you need a 4-letter word, NIGH might be a perfect fit.
- Context is Key: Look at surrounding clues or letters you've already filled in. The context of the puzzle can often guide you to the most appropriate "almost" synonym or related term.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'almost' signify in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'almost' often indicates that the answer is a synonym for 'nearly', 'barely', or 'very close to'. It can also suggest a word that is a partial version of another, or a word that implies a state of being 'not quite' something.
Are there common word patterns or prefixes for 'almost' clues?
Yes, common patterns include words like NEARLY, BARELY, and ALLBUT. Prefixes such as QUASI- (meaning 'as if' or 'almost') and SEMI- (meaning 'half' or 'partially') are also frequently used to convey the sense of 'almost'.
How can I approach a tricky 'almost' crossword clue?
When stuck on an 'almost' clue, consider the exact word count needed. Think about synonyms for 'nearly' or 'barely'. Also, look for less common words or archaic terms like NIGH. Sometimes, the clue might point to a partial word or a prefix/suffix. Always consider the surrounding letters if you have some already filled in.