before this time crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for the solution to "before this time" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers with clear explanations, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "before this time crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PRIOR: Meaning 'existing or coming before in time, order, or importance.'
7 Letters
EARLIER: Meaning 'at an early time or date; before the present time.'
8 Letters
HITHERTO: Meaning 'until this time; previously; up to this point.'
10 Letters
HERETOFORE: Meaning 'until this time; previously.'
More About "before this time crossword"
"Before this time" is a common crossword clue that aims to elicit words describing a previous state, event, or period. These clues often test your vocabulary for adverbs or adjectives that convey precedence in time. Solutions typically include words that directly mean 'previously,' 'formerly,' or 'up to this point.' Recognizing these temporal indicators is a key skill in mastering crosswords.
The variety of answers for such a clue often depends on the specific nuance the puzzle setter is looking for, or simply the required letter count. From concise terms like PRIOR to more elaborate ones like HERETOFORE, the options provide ample flexibility for different puzzle grids. Always consider the context of other intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities and confidently fill in the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: "Before this time" can have subtle variations. Is it just 'earlier', or 'up to this very moment'? The exact phrasing of the clue can sometimes point to a specific synonym.
- Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required. This is your primary filter and can immediately eliminate many possible solutions, helping you focus on fitting words.
- Consider Archaic Terms: Crosswords, especially traditional ones, love older or less common words. For time-related clues, words like "hitherto" or "heretofore" are frequent visitors.
- Look for Prefixes: Words starting with "pre-" (as in previous, preceding) are often related to "before" clues. Keep an eye out for such patterns.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "before this time" typically imply in crosswords?
It often points to adverbs or adjectives that denote a preceding period, such as "prior," "earlier," "hitherto," or "heretofore." These words directly reflect the meaning of 'before now' or 'up to this point'.
How can I find synonyms for time-related clues?
Consider prefixes like "pre-" or words indicating order or sequence. Think about when an action or state occurred in relation to the present. Context is key, so always check if the answer fits the surrounding letters and the overall theme of the puzzle.
Are there common traps with "before this time" clues?
Watch out for clues that might sound similar but refer to a different temporal relationship, like "since then" or "from now on." Also, be mindful of archaic or less common synonyms that might fit the letter count. Always check the letter count and surrounding letters carefully.