As a body or whole (2,4) Crossword Clue
Answer: EN BLOC (6 letters)
En bloc refers to something done as a body or whole — all at once or as a single unit. The phrase is borrowed from French (literally “in a block”) and is used in English to describe actions taken collectively (for example, “the committee accepted the proposals en bloc”), matching the clue’s definition exactly.
Why “EN BLOC” Fits
The clue asks for a phrase (2,4) meaning “as a body or whole.” The answer, EN BLOC, fits perfectly.
- Primary keyword targeting: En bloc means acting or taken collectively — as a group or in entirety — exactly matching the clue’s definition.
- Direct match: With six letters arranged as (2,4), en bloc aligns precisely with the enumeration.
- Precise meaning: The phrase conveys unity, wholeness, or collective consideration, commonly used in contexts like voting, decisions, or movements.
A Bit of Background
The expression en bloc originates from French and is widely used in English:
- Origin and usage: From French en bloc, meaning “in a block” or “as one piece.” It entered English diplomatic and parliamentary language in the 19th century.
- Contexts: Common in politics, medicine, and negotiation. For example, a government may vote en bloc (as one unit), or a surgeon may remove tissue en bloc (entirely, in one piece).
Crossword Solving Insight
Quick crossword clues like “as a body or whole (2,4)” often rely on foreign-origin idioms that have entered English vocabulary:
- Alternatives such as in total (2,5) or as one (2,3) fit similar clues, but en bloc uniquely expresses the formal “collectively/as a whole” meaning.
- The clue’s reference to “a body” or “whole” immediately signals a phrase that means “together” — leading logically to en bloc.
- With precise enumeration, idiomatic flavor, and exact contextual use, en bloc is the correct crossword solution.
