elapse crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers for "elapse crossword clue," meticulously categorized by letter count, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the solution and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "elapse crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
RUN: Refers to time moving forward, as in "time runs out" or "the clock runs."
FLY: Often used in the idiom "time flies," meaning time passes quickly.
4 Letters
PASS: Implies the movement of time, similar to "time passes quickly."
TICK: Relates to the sound of a clock, signifying the progression of time.
6 Letters
EXPIRE: Denotes the coming to an end of a period of time, as in a contract expiring or time expiring on a clock.
7 Letters
PROCEED: Suggests the continuation or going forward of time or an event.
More About "elapse crossword clue"
The clue "elapse" is a common one in crosswords, directly referencing the passage of time. When you encounter this clue, think about synonyms for "pass," "go by," or "run out" in the context of duration. The beauty of crossword clues like "elapse" is their directness; they often lead to straightforward synonyms, but the challenge lies in matching the exact number of letters required by the grid.
Understanding the nuances of time-related vocabulary can significantly boost your success with such clues. For instance, while 'RUN' and 'PASS' are common for shorter answers, 'EXPIRE' or 'PROCEED' might be used for longer solutions, each carrying a slightly different implication of time's journey. Always consider the verb tense and whether the clue implies a continuous action or a completion, as these can subtly guide you to the correct answer.
This clue also highlights the importance of context. Sometimes, a clue might cleverly disguise the meaning of "elapse" within a broader phrase, but typically, it's a direct request for a word that signifies time moving forward or running out. Mastering these common time-related verbs is a key step in becoming a proficient crossword solver, allowing you to quickly identify the solution regardless of its length.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For clues like "elapse," immediately brainstorm as many synonyms as possible for the core meaning (passing of time). Consider both common and less common alternatives.
- Check Letter Count First: Before diving deep, always look at the number of boxes provided in the grid. This immediately narrows down your options significantly and prevents you from considering irrelevant words.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: If stuck, fill in any intersecting letters from other solved clues. Even one letter can often unlock a difficult word by giving you a crucial starting point or confirming an educated guess.
- Consider Phrasal Verbs: While "elapse" is a single word, sometimes answers related to it might be phrasal verbs (e.g., "GO BY"). Be open to these if the letter count fits (counting each word as part of the total length) and it makes sense semantically with the clue.
For more advice on tackling various clue types and general solving techniques, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'elapse' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'elapse' typically refers to the passing of time. Common answers are synonyms like RUN, PASS, FLY, or GO BY, often depending on the number of letters required by the puzzle grid.
How do I determine the correct answer length for an 'elapse' clue?
The correct answer length is always indicated by the number of blank spaces provided in the crossword grid for that specific clue. If there are 4 spaces, you're looking for a 4-letter word like PASS. Always check the grid first!
What if multiple answers fit the 'elapse' clue in a crossword?
When multiple answers seem to fit a clue like 'elapse', the key is to use intersecting words. The letters from other solved clues that cross your current word will reveal which specific answer is correct for that particular puzzle, eliminating ambiguity.