earlier than crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "earlier than," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "earlier than crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PRE: A common prefix meaning 'before' or 'earlier'.
5 Letters
PRIOR: Meaning 'before in time or order', often used formally.
AHEAD: Indicates being in front or at an earlier point in a sequence or time.
6 Letters
BEFORE: A common adverb meaning 'at an earlier time' or 'in front of'.
SOONER: Comparative form of 'soon', implying a quicker or earlier time.
More About "earlier than crossword clue"
The phrase "earlier than" is a straightforward temporal indicator in crosswords, often pointing to words or prefixes that convey a sense of precedence in time or order. While direct synonyms like "before" are common, clues can sometimes be more subtle, requiring you to think about how something might precede another element in a sequence or process.
Understanding the nuances of temporal clues is key to mastering crosswords. Sometimes, the clue might imply a relative "earlier than," as in "sooner" or "ahead," rather than an absolute "before." Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting words you might already have to narrow down the possibilities for this type of clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Prefixes: Many clues related to "earlier than" can be solved with common prefixes like "PRE-". Always keep an eye out for these, especially with shorter letter counts.
- Think of Synonyms for "Before": Brainstorm various words that mean "before" in different contexts – formal, informal, or sequential. Words like PRIOR, AHEAD, and SOONER are great starting points.
- Check Word Lengths: The most crucial tip is always to match the answer to the exact number of letters required. If "BEFORE" fits, "PRIOR" won't, and vice versa.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'earlier than' typically imply in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'earlier than' often refers to temporal sequence, indicating something that comes before another event or point in time. Common answers include words like PRIOR, BEFORE, or PRE- (as a prefix).
How can I distinguish between 'PRIOR' and 'BEFORE' for an 'earlier than' clue?
'PRIOR' and 'BEFORE' both mean 'earlier than', but 'PRIOR' is often used more formally or in phrases like 'prior to' or 'prior notice'. 'BEFORE' is more general. The number of letters required for the answer is usually the deciding factor in crosswords.
Are there common prefixes related to 'earlier than'?
Yes, the prefix 'PRE-' is very common and directly translates to 'before' or 'earlier than'. It appears in many words like 'pre-date', 'pre-order', or 'pre-arranged'.