anon crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling "anon crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "anon crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SOON: A common answer for 'anon', meaning shortly or in a brief period of time.
7 Letters
SHORTLY: Another frequent solution, indicating something will happen in the near future.
BYANDBY: An older, more poetic synonym for 'anon', meaning eventually or in due course.
9 Letters
PRESENTLY: Meaning 'soon' or 'at the present time', often interchangeable with 'anon' in older texts.
More About "anon crossword clue"
The word "anon" itself is a fascinating journey through the English language. Originating from Old English, it once meant "in one" or "at once," evolving over centuries to signify "soon" or "shortly." While less common in everyday conversation today, it frequently appears in literature, poetry, and, crucially, in crosswords. Its presence in puzzles often tests a solver's knowledge of archaic or literary terms, pushing them to think beyond modern vernacular.
When you encounter "anon" in a crossword clue, the setters are usually hinting at a word related to immediacy or a short span of time. Understanding this historical context not only helps in solving the current puzzle but also enriches your overall vocabulary, making you a more versatile crossword solver. It's a classic example of how crosswords blend wordplay with an appreciation for linguistic history.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Archaic Synonyms: For clues like "anon," always think about older or less common synonyms. Many crossword setters love to use words that aren't in daily use but are still valid English.
- Check Letter Count First: After identifying potential answers, immediately check if their letter count matches the grid. This is the quickest way to narrow down possibilities.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other completed answers can provide a hint towards the register (e.g., formal, informal, literary) of the answer, guiding you to the most appropriate synonym.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "anon" mean in a crossword clue?
"Anon" is an archaic or literary term meaning "soon," "shortly," or "in a little while." In crosswords, it almost always points to answers related to time or immediacy.
Are there other common synonyms for "anon" in crosswords?
Besides "soon" and "shortly," you might encounter "presently" or the slightly more old-fashioned "by and by." Context is key in determining the exact fit.
How can knowing archaic words like "anon" help with crosswords?
Many crossword puzzles, especially cryptic ones, draw from a broader vocabulary including archaic words, literary terms, and foreign phrases. Familiarity with such words can significantly improve your ability to solve clues that might otherwise seem obscure.