crossword clue certainly – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "certainly," you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the common solutions, broken down by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue certainly" by Letter Count
3 Letters
YES: A simple, direct affirmation.
4 Letters
SURE: Expressing confidence or agreement.
6 Letters
INDEED: An emphatic word for "certainly" or "in fact".
10 Letters
ABSOLUTELY: Without a doubt; a strong affirmation.
10 Letters
POSITIVELY: In a definite and affirmative manner; with certainty.
More About "crossword clue certainly"
The clue "certainly" is a staple in crosswords, often pointing to an adverb of affirmation. Its simplicity can sometimes be a trap, as constructors might use it for a wide range of synonyms, from common one-word answers like YES or SURE to more elaborate adverbs like ABSOLUTELY or POSITIVELY.
When encountering "certainly," your first step should always be to look at the number of letters provided in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities. Then, consider the surrounding letters (crosses) that are already filled in. These intersecting letters are your best guide to confirming the correct word.
Understanding the nuances of its synonyms can also be helpful. While "yes" is a basic agreement, "indeed" carries more emphasis, and "absolutely" denotes complete agreement without reservation. Familiarity with these subtle differences, combined with letter count and cross-references, will quickly lead you to the solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always prioritize the given number of letters. It's the most powerful filter for potential answers.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from perpendicular words are critical for confirming your guesses and eliminating incorrect possibilities.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: Think about all possible synonyms for the clue. Sometimes a less common but perfectly valid synonym is the intended answer. For "certainly," consider words that express affirmation, conviction, or lack of doubt.
- Think About Part of Speech: Ensure your answer matches the part of speech implied by the clue. "Certainly" is an adverb, so your answer should usually be an adverb too.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of words does "certainly" typically clue in crosswords?
"Certainly" commonly clues adverbs of affirmation or simple affirmative interjections. Examples include 'YES', 'SURE', 'INDEED', 'ABSOLUTELY', or 'POSITIVELY'.
How does letter count help when solving a 'certainly' clue?
The letter count is crucial as it significantly narrows down the possible answers. For example, knowing it's a 3-letter word immediately suggests 'YES', while a 9-letter count might point to 'ABSOLUTELY'.
Are there any common tricks or nuances with the clue 'certainly'?
While often straightforward, sometimes 'certainly' can be part of a larger phrase (e.g., 'certainly not', though this would usually be clued differently), or require a less common synonym depending on the puzzle's difficulty. Always check surrounding letters and the overall theme.