There are some crossword clues that, at first glance, seem utterly straightforward. You read them, and a word immediately springs to mind. It fits the letter count, it seems to match the definition perfectly, and you pencil it in with a confident flourish. Then, as you tackle the surrounding squares, you realize something is off. That initial, obvious answer doesn’t quite work. Or, perhaps, you’re staring at a blank grid, and this seemingly simple clue is the only one you can find. “Very important (7)” – a seemingly innocuous phrase that can either be a delightful opener or a stubbornly elusive challenge in your daily crossword puzzle.
This particular type of crossword clue is a fantastic example of why we love crosswords so much. It’s not about obscure trivia or convoluted wordplay; it’s about taking a fundamental concept and finding the
precise
word that fits, not just the dictionary definition, but also the specific nuances expected by the puzzle constructor. When you encounter a crossword clue like “Very important (7),” your mind immediately starts sifting through synonyms. Significant? Crucial? Essential? Paramount? All excellent candidates, but only one fits that specific seven-letter slot, and crucially, the specific context the constructor has in mind.
Part of the art of solving any crossword clue, especially one that looks deceptively simple, is to consider all angles. Is it a person? An object? An abstract concept? For “Very important (7),” it’s highly likely an adjective describing something of great consequence or value. The simplicity of the phrasing can be a trap; it encourages a quick jump to the most common synonym. However, the best crossword clues often nudge you towards a less obvious, but perfectly apt, choice. This is where your mental thesaurus gets a serious workout.
Think about the various ways something can be “very important.” It could be important to a
situation
, making it critical. It could be important to a
person
, making it vital. Or it could be important in a
general sense
, denoting a high degree of significance. Each subtle shift in meaning can point you towards a different seven-letter word. Seasoned crossword solvers know that the constructor’s choice of an adjective, adverb, or noun can be the key to unlocking the true answer behind a common crossword clue.
Often, for a crossword clue like this, the first few letters from intersecting words are your best friends. If you have, say, a ‘P’ or an ‘M’ in the third position, that immediately narrows down your options dramatically. Without those helpful intersections, it’s a pure test of vocabulary and lateral thinking. This is precisely why a seemingly easy crossword clue can sometimes hold up your entire solve. You’re confident you know the meaning, but finding that
exact
seven-letter match requires a little more digging, a little more patience.
The satisfaction of finally cracking a crossword clue that initially stumped you is immense. It’s that “Aha!” moment when the right word finally clicks into place, not just because it fits the definition, but because it feels inherently
right
for the puzzle’s tone. “Very important (7)” is a classic in this regard. It’s a common crossword clue that tests your direct vocabulary, but also your ability to consider shades of meaning and common crossword conventions. It’s a prime example of how even a straightforward definition can hide a surprising amount of depth and challenge within the grid. Keep at it, keep exploring those synonyms, and the solution to this excellent crossword clue will reveal itself.
Available Answers:
CRUCIAL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 17 July 2025