Welcome back, puzzle enthusiasts! There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of cracking a particularly clever
crossword clue
, is there? Today, we’re diving into one that might have given you a moment’s pause, or perhaps sent you down a delightful rabbit hole of linguistic exploration. The clue in question? “More or less in a careless way (7).”
At first glance, this
crossword clue
presents itself with an intriguing duality. We have the phrase “More or less,” which immediately conjures notions of approximation, estimation, or a lack of precise detail. Then, juxtaposed against it, is “in a careless way,” a clear descriptor of a manner or an approach, suggesting a lack of attention, diligence, or accuracy. The challenge, of course, is to find a single seven-letter word that beautifully marries these two concepts.
When faced with a
crossword clue
like this, my first instinct is always to break it down. Let’s consider “More or less.” This phrase often functions as a softener, indicating something isn’t exact. It implies a degree of looseness, a ballpark figure rather than an absolute. Now, think about “in a careless way.” What synonyms come to mind for someone acting carelessly? Perhaps haphazardly, sloppily, negligently? The key is finding a word that encapsulates the
spirit
of “more or less” while simultaneously defining “in a careless way.”
The brilliance of a good
crossword clue
lies in its ability to lead you down a specific path, but with just enough ambiguity to make you work for it. Is “More or less” a direct part of the definition, or is it a cryptic hint? In this instance, it feels like both. The “more or less” aspect is intrinsically linked to the “careless way” – a careless approach often results in something that is merely approximate, not exact. It’s about a lack of precision, whether intentional or accidental.
So, how do we approach finding that seven-letter gem? We’re looking for an adverbial quality (since it’s “in a way”). Think about words that describe actions or states that lack exactitude or meticulousness. What does it mean to do something “more or less” when that action is also performed “carelessly”? It implies a lack of measurement, a disregard for strict adherence, a general sweep rather than a detailed focus.
Often, the best
crossword clues
are those that make you connect seemingly disparate ideas, only for the connection to click into place with a satisfying “aha!” moment. This one is no different. It prompts you to consider the overlap between approximation and negligence. Both concepts suggest a deviation from exactness, a departure from the precise. One is a matter of degree, the other a matter of attitude, but their outcomes can be strikingly similar.
As you ponder this particular
crossword clue
, consider other similar constructions you’ve encountered. Have you seen phrases like “approximately” or “roughly” used in tandem with other descriptors? What kind of words emerge from those connections? Keep an eye on that seven-letter constraint – it’s your ultimate guidepost, narrowing down the field of potential candidates significantly.
Unraveling this kind of clever wordplay is what makes crosswords so addictive. It’s a mental gym, a linguistic workout that sharpens your vocabulary and your lateral thinking skills. So, take another look at “More or less in a careless way (7).” Think about the words that convey both approximation and a lack of diligence. I have no doubt you’ll get there. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
ROUGHLY.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 29 September 2025