crossword clue at once – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving even the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue 'at once', categorized by letter count to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Solutions for "crossword clue at once" by Letter Count
3 Letters
NOW: Immediately, at the present moment. A very common short answer for 'at once'.
4 Letters
ANON: Soon; in a short time. An archaic but frequently used term in crosswords for 'at once'.
8 Letters
PROMPTLY: Without delay; quickly. Indicates immediacy and efficiency.
9 Letters
INSTANTLY: At once; immediately. Suggests something happening without any pause.
FORTHWITH: Immediately; without delay. An older term commonly found in puzzles.
11 Letters
IMMEDIATELY: At once; without delay. The most direct synonym for the clue.
More About "crossword clue at once"
'At once' is a staple in crossword puzzles, often appearing as a concise clue for terms indicating urgency or simultaneity. Its versatility allows constructors to use it for words ranging from short, common expressions like 'NOW' to longer, more formal synonyms such as 'IMMEDIATELY'. Understanding the nuances of this phrase, including its more archaic synonyms, is key to cracking many puzzles.
Clues like 'at once' are designed to test your vocabulary breadth, particularly your knowledge of synonyms and less common but equally valid definitions. The context of the surrounding letters in your grid will often provide the necessary hints to discern which specific answer is required, highlighting the importance of considering letter count and intersecting words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always match the known letters and remaining blank spaces to the potential answer's length. This is your primary filter for clues like 'at once' that have multiple solutions.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crossword clues often rely on direct synonyms or, occasionally, antonyms (if indicated by the clue wording). For 'at once', brainstorm all words meaning 'immediately' or 'simultaneously'.
- Look for Crosswordese: Some words, like 'ANON' for 'at once', are particularly popular in crosswords due to their useful letter patterns and specific meanings. Familiarize yourself with these common crossword terms.
- Context is King: The intersecting words are your best friends. If you have a few letters from a crossing word, they can quickly narrow down the possibilities for 'at once'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'at once' typically indicate in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'at once' commonly indicates a word meaning 'immediately', 'simultaneously', or 'without delay'. It's a precise directive for a time-sensitive action, often hinting at adverbs.
Why are there multiple answers for 'at once'?
Many common phrases and concepts in English have several synonyms, and 'at once' is one of them. Crossword constructors use these synonyms to fit different letter counts in their grids, making it essential to consider all possibilities.
How can I quickly find short answers like 'NOW' or 'ANON'?
Short answers often rely on common, concise synonyms or archaic terms frequently used in puzzles (crosswordese). If you have only a few letters filled in, think of the shortest possible words that fit the clue's meaning and the available letters. 'NOW' and 'ANON' are classic examples of such short, direct answers for 'at once'.