earlier than crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! If you're pondering "earlier than crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate solutions with clear explanations, helping you conquer your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "earlier than crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PRIOR: Meaning existing or coming before in time, order, or importance. A very common crossword answer for "earlier than" or similar temporal clues.
6 Letters
BEFORE: Denoting a time earlier than the time that something happens. A straightforward and direct synonym for "earlier than".
8 Letters
PREVIOUS: Meaning existing or occurring before in time or order. Often used to refer to something that immediately preceded the current thing.
More About "earlier than crossword"
The clue "earlier than crossword" is a classic example of a temporal or sequential clue frequently found in crosswords. It asks for a word that signifies something that came before, either in time, a list, or a series of events. Understanding the nuances of such clues is key to successful puzzling.
Words like PRIOR, BEFORE, and PREVIOUS are standard solutions because they directly convey the concept of precedence. Crossword setters often use these straightforward synonyms, but sometimes they might employ more obscure terms or wordplay that hints at the "earlier" concept, such as "antecedent" or "erstwhile," depending on the puzzle's difficulty and style.
When encountering such clues, always consider the exact letter count required and check how the potential answer interacts with crossing words in the grid. This helps confirm your choice and ensures accuracy, especially when multiple synonyms could fit the initial meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Synonyms: For clues like "earlier than," think of all possible synonyms for "before," "prior," and "past." Build a mental thesaurus of common crossword words.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the answer grid. This is your most crucial hint, narrowing down possibilities immensely. A word like "PRIOR" (5 letters) won't fit if the grid requires 8, in which case "PREVIOUS" might be the answer.
- Use Intersecting Words: Don't try to solve a clue in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are invaluable. If you have a few letters, it becomes much easier to deduce the full word.
- Consider Common Crossword Eponyms: Some words, while general, are more common in crosswords than everyday speech. Familiarize yourself with these, as they often appear for temporal or relational clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'earlier than' typically imply in crosswords?
'Earlier than' in crosswords typically implies a word meaning 'before' or 'preceding' in terms of time, sequence, or rank. Common answers include 'PRIOR', 'PREVIOUS', 'BEFORE', or variations depending on the letter count.
Are there other words similar to 'earlier than' often used in clues?
Yes, clues like 'preceding', 'formerly', 'erstwhile', 'of old', 'antecedent', or 'from the past' can all point to similar temporal answers. Always consider synonyms and the context of the puzzle.
How do I determine the correct length for 'earlier than' clues?
The length is crucial. Crossword grids specify the number of letters for each answer. If you have 'earlier than' and need a 5-letter word, 'PRIOR' is a strong candidate. If 8 letters, 'PREVIOUS' might fit. Always cross-reference with intersecting words.