a short while crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "a short while" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "a short while crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BIT: A very brief period of time, often implying a small quantity or duration.
5 Letters
WHILE: A period of time, often implying a relatively short duration in common usage.
SPELL: A continuous period of time, frequently used to describe a short duration, e.g., 'a short spell of rain'.
JIFFY: An extremely short period of time; an instant or a moment.
6 Letters
MOMENT: A very brief period of time or a specific point in time.
7 Letters
INSTANT: A particular moment or a very short space of time; often used interchangeably with 'moment'.
More About "a short while crossword"
"A short while" is a classic crossword clue that plays on the concept of time. Its simplicity often hides a range of possible answers, making it a good test of a solver's vocabulary and ability to think of synonyms for brief durations. Clues like this are fundamental in crosswords as they are versatile and can fit various grid layouts depending on the required letter count.
The ambiguity of "a short while" allows for multiple interpretations, from a mere 'bit' to a slightly longer 'moment' or 'spell'. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer, especially when other intersecting words aren't yet solved. Crossword setters love these types of clues because they offer several valid solutions, forcing solvers to rely on the grid and intersecting letters.
Mastering common time-related clues is a stepping stone for any crossword enthusiast. It trains the brain to associate a concept (like 'short duration') with a variety of potential words, a skill that is invaluable across all types of crossword puzzles, from daily cryptics to themed Sunday challenges.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of blank squares for the clue. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "a short while" from six options to one or two.
- Check Intersecting Words: Fill in any intersecting words first. Even one confirmed letter can often eliminate incorrect answers and reveal the correct one for "a short while".
- Consider Nuance: While "a short while" is broad, think if the puzzle's theme or other clues hint at a very quick "jiffy" versus a slightly longer "spell." Context can sometimes guide your choice.
- Think of Alternatives: If your initial thought doesn't fit, cycle through other synonyms for "a short while" like 'bit', 'moment', 'spell', 'jiffy', 'while', and 'instant'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'a short while' imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'a short while' typically refers to a brief, undefined period of time. This clue often leads to answers like MOMENT, BIT, or SPELL, as it signifies a transient duration rather than a specific point.
Are there common synonyms for 'a short while' used as crossword clues?
Yes, common synonyms or phrases used as clues for 'a short while' often include 'brief period', 'moment', 'instant', 'spell', 'a bit of time', or 'a flash'. These variations aim to elicit similar short-duration answers.
How do I determine the exact answer length for 'a short while' in a crossword?
The length of the answer is determined by the number of squares provided in the crossword grid for that specific clue. Additionally, intersecting words and their letters will help confirm which specific answer, among possibilities like BIT (3 letters) or MOMENT (6 letters), fits the puzzle.