What does 'come before' typically imply in a crossword clue?

In crosswords, 'come before' usually implies temporal precedence (earlier in time), ordinal precedence (earlier in a sequence or rank), or spatial precedence (in front of).

Are there common prefixes associated with 'come before' clues?

Yes, common prefixes like 'PRE-' (as in precede, predate, prelude) and 'ANTE-' (as in antedate, antebellum) are frequently linked to 'come before' type clues in crosswords.

How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'PREDATE' and 'ANTEDATE'?

'PREDATE' and 'ANTEDATE' are often interchangeable for 'come before' in time. However, 'antedate' can also specifically mean to assign an earlier date than the actual date, while 'predate' generally refers to simply existing or occurring earlier.

crossword clue come before – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "come before", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.

Solutions for "crossword clue come before" by Letter Count

4 Letters

LEAD: To go before or show the way, as in 'to lead the parade'.

7 Letters

PRECEDE: To come or go before in time, place, order, or rank, as 'the overture precedes the main act'.

PREDATE: To exist or occur at an earlier date than something else, e.g., 'dinosaurs predate humans'.

8 Letters

ANTEDATE: To precede in time; to occur before a specified date, or to assign an earlier date than the actual one.

More About "crossword clue come before"

The clue "come before" is a classic in crosswords, often pointing towards words that denote precedence in time, order, or even physical location. While seemingly straightforward, the challenge lies in identifying the exact synonym that fits the given letter count and integrates smoothly with the surrounding letters.

Common answers like PRECEDE, PREDATE, and ANTEDATE all revolve around the concept of temporal sequence, but context can sometimes differentiate them. For instance, 'PRECEDE' might imply a formal or logical order, while 'PREDATE' is more about simple chronological earlier existence. Understanding these nuances can greatly assist in narrowing down the possibilities in a tricky puzzle.

Other less obvious answers might include words that imply 'leading' or 'going first', expanding the scope beyond strict chronological order. Always consider the wider theme of the puzzle and any associated wordplay that might be at play, as crosswords love to play with multiple meanings of a word.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. It immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows your focus significantly.
Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "come before," think of its direct synonyms and also its antonyms (e.g., 'follow', 'succeed') as a way to trigger related words.
Look for Prefixes: Many words meaning 'before' start with common prefixes like 'PRE-' or 'ANTE-'. If you have a few letters filled in, these can be strong indicators.
Check Surrounding Letters: Once you have a few letters filled around the blank, test potential answers to see if they create valid words with the existing letters. This is often the quickest way to confirm a solution.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common synonyms for "come before" in crosswords?

Common synonyms include PRECEDE, ANTEDATE, PREDATE, and sometimes words like LEAD or FOREGO, depending on the specific nuance implied by the clue and puzzle context.

How do I know which "come before" word to use when multiple options fit the length?

To choose between similar answers, look at the letters you already have filled in from intersecting words. This will often reveal which specific word fits the grid. Also, consider any specific context in the clue; for example, 'come before in time' might favor ANTEDATE, while 'come before in rank' might suggest PRECEDE.

Can "come before" ever refer to a physical position?

Yes, while often temporal, "come before" can sometimes imply a physical position or sequence, such as 'The leader must LEAD the way' or 'The usher will PRECEDE you to your seat.' Always consider all interpretations.