the whole shebang crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "the whole shebang crossword", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "the whole shebang crossword" by Letter Count
7 Letters
ALLOFIT: An informal term meaning the entirety of something; everything included.
8 Letters
TOTALITY: The total amount, quantity, or extent; the whole.
8 Letters
ENTIRETY: The state of being complete or whole; the whole of something.
10 Letters
EVERYTHING: All things, including all things of a particular class or group; the whole lot.
More About "the whole shebang crossword"
"The whole shebang" is a vibrant, informal idiom often used to refer to everything, the entire thing, or the complete collection of something. Its origins are a bit hazy, but it's believed to have emerged in American English around the late 19th or early 20th century. The word "shebang" itself might come from an Irish Gaelic term or a corruption of "shanty" or "cabane," referring to a temporary dwelling or, by extension, a collection of belongings within it.
As a crossword clue, "the whole shebang" is popular because it points directly to several concise, single-word synonyms that perfectly capture its meaning. This allows puzzle constructors flexibility in fitting answers of varying lengths into their grids. It tests a solver's knowledge of common idioms and their ability to quickly recall appropriate synonyms.
Understanding such idiomatic clues is a key skill in crossword solving. They require you to think beyond the literal meaning and consider the figurative or common usage of a phrase. Mastering these types of clues can significantly speed up your solving process and enhance your enjoyment of crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms carefully: For idiomatic clues like "the whole shebang," brainstorm all possible single-word synonyms. Don't just stick to the first one that comes to mind; others might fit different letter counts or contexts.
- Use intersecting letters: If you're stuck, fill in any intersecting letters from solved clues. This can reveal patterns or confirm parts of the word you're considering, making the answer jump out.
- Check word length: Always double-check the required letter count for the answer. Many good solutions for "the whole shebang" exist, but only one will fit the designated number of squares.
- Think of context: While "the whole shebang" is generally direct, some clues can have subtle nuances. Consider the overall theme of the puzzle or the constructor's style if you're still stumped.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'the whole shebang' mean?
'The whole shebang' is an idiomatic expression that means the entire thing, everything, or the complete set of something. It implies inclusiveness and totality.
Why is 'the whole shebang' a common crossword clue?
It's a popular clue because it's a widely understood idiom with several single-word synonyms (like 'entirety', 'everything', 'totality') that fit various letter counts, making it versatile for crossword setters.
Are there other similar phrases often used in crosswords?
Yes, similar phrases include 'the whole nine yards', 'the full catastrophe', or 'the long and short of it'. These also often point to answers like 'ENTIRETY' or 'SUMMARY'.