erstwhile crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions for the crossword clue "erstwhile", along with detailed explanations to help you understand and master your puzzles. We aim to provide the quickest and most accurate answers for all word lengths.
Solutions for "erstwhile crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PAST: Refers to a time that has gone by, fitting for 'erstwhile'.
6 Letters
FORMER: Denoting a person or thing that previously was what it is no longer.
BYGONE: Belonging to an earlier time; past, a perfect synonym for 'erstwhile'.
7 Letters
ANCIENT: Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence. Can be a broader synonym for 'erstwhile'.
8 Letters
PREVIOUS: Existing or occurring before in time or order, a strong match for 'erstwhile'.
More About "erstwhile crossword clue"
"Erstwhile" is an intriguing word that often appears in crosswords, challenging solvers to recall its somewhat archaic yet precise meaning. Derived from Old English, it literally means "earlier time" or "formerly." This makes it a prime candidate for clues seeking synonyms related to the past, prior states, or things that once were but are no longer.
Its frequent appearance in puzzles is also due to its versatility, allowing for answers of varying lengths. Whether the grid calls for a short word like PAST or a longer one such as PREVIOUS, "erstwhile" provides ample scope for constructors. Understanding its core meaning will greatly assist you when encountering similar clues in future crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: When faced with a clue like "erstwhile," always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Think of Close Synonyms: Brainstorm direct synonyms for 'former', 'past', 'bygone'. Sometimes, the simplest word is the correct one.
- Context is Key: While "erstwhile" is specific, always consider if other words in the clue or surrounding answers give more context or hint towards a specific type of past (e.g., 'erstwhile king' might hint at a specific historical figure's title).
- Check Common Crossword Patterns: Some answers are more common than others for certain clues. Familiarize yourself with frequently used crossword terms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "erstwhile" mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, "erstwhile" typically means 'former', 'previous', 'bygone', or 'old'. It points to something that existed or occurred in the past, but no longer does.
Why is "erstwhile" a common crossword clue?
"Erstwhile" is a favorite clue due to its precise meaning and the availability of multiple common synonyms across various letter lengths. This makes it versatile for puzzle constructors seeking to fit words like PAST, FORMER, or BYGONE into their grids.
How can I find synonyms for "erstwhile" quickly?
To quickly find synonyms for "erstwhile," think of words meaning 'past' or 'former'. You can also use online crossword solvers, synonym dictionaries, or specific crossword clue databases like Crosswordanswer.co.uk by entering the clue and any known letters.