crossword clue on the up-and-up – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "on the up-and-up," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you need a quick hint or a detailed understanding, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "crossword clue on the up-and-up" by Letter Count
10 Letters
ABOVEBOARD: This term perfectly describes something that is honest, open, and legitimate, with no secret or dishonest intentions, aligning precisely with "on the up-and-up."
6 Letters
HONEST: A straightforward and very common answer, directly meaning truthful and free from deceit, reflecting the core sense of the clue.
SQUARE: In an informal context, 'square' can mean fair, straightforward, or equitable, often used in phrases like "a square deal," indicating honesty and legitimacy.
KOSHER: While literally referring to food prepared according to Jewish law, colloquially 'kosher' means legitimate, genuine, or acceptable, fitting the "on the up-and-up" meaning.
5 Letters
LEGIT: A modern, informal shortening of 'legitimate,' implying something is legal, authentic, or genuine, and therefore "on the up-and-up."
4 Letters
FAIR: Implies justice, impartiality, and honesty, making it a concise and accurate answer for the clue.
TRUE: Directly means in accordance with fact or reality; accurate or exact, often implying honesty or genuineness.
More About "crossword clue on the up-and-up"
The idiom "on the up-and-up" is a common phrase used to describe something that is honest, legitimate, and conducted without deceit. When you encounter this clue in a crossword, the puzzle setter is looking for a word that conveys trustworthiness, transparency, or authenticity. This phrase often appears in contexts related to business dealings, personal conduct, or the general integrity of a situation.
Because idioms can have several synonymous terms depending on their nuance and length, "on the up-and-up" offers a rich field of potential answers. Understanding the core meaning – integrity and straightforwardness – is key to unlocking the solution. Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they test a solver's vocabulary depth and their grasp of idiomatic expressions.
Remember that the context of other intersecting words in your puzzle will be crucial. If you have several letters filled in, that will quickly narrow down the possibilities among words like ABOVEBOARD, HONEST, LEGIT, or FAIR. Always consider the precise number of letters requested to guide your choice.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Understand Idioms: When faced with an idiomatic clue like "on the up-and-up," try to rephrase it into simpler, more direct synonyms. What does the idiom really mean?
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the required letter count. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on the most relevant answers for the clue.
- Look for Overlaps: Use any intersecting letters from other solved clues. These letters are your most valuable hints, significantly reducing the pool of potential words.
- Consider Different Meanings: Some words have multiple meanings. For example, "square" can mean a geometric shape or, colloquially, honest. Crossword setters often play on these different interpretations.
- Think of Formal vs. Informal: Clues can sometimes hint at the formality of the answer. "On the up-and-up" can lead to both formal (ABOVEBOARD) and informal (LEGIT) synonyms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase 'on the up-and-up' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'on the up-and-up' typically refers to something that is honest, legitimate, trustworthy, or above suspicion. It often leads to answers like HONEST, ABOVEBOARD, LEGIT, or SQUARE.
How can I find answers for idiomatic crossword clues like 'on the up-and-up'?
For idiomatic clues, think about the core meaning of the idiom. Break it down into simpler synonyms. Also, consider the specific letter count required, as idioms can have multiple valid answers depending on the length.
Are there common synonyms for 'on the up-and-up' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms that appear as crossword answers include 'honest', 'legitimate', 'fair', 'kosher', 'true', 'aboveboard', and 'square'. The specific answer will depend on the puzzle's letter count and other intersecting words.