expired crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "expired" clue, you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate solutions tailored to various word lengths, along with explanations to help you understand the nuances and improve your future puzzle-solving skills. Dive in and find the perfect fit for your grid!
Solutions for "expired crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DEAD: Often used figuratively, as in "dead battery" or "dead end," implying something is no longer functional or active.
GONE: Suggests something has passed its prime or is no longer present, like "gone bad" for food.
OVER: Implies completion or cessation, as in "the period is over" or "the time is over."
PAST: Refers to something that is no longer current or relevant, typically in phrases like "past its prime" or "past due."
VOID: Indicates something is no longer legally valid or has been nullified, such as a "void contract."
5 Letters
ENDED: A straightforward synonym for something that has ceased to be or has completed its duration.
FADED: Commonly refers to something that has lost its color or intensity over time, implying it has "expired" in vibrancy.
PASSE: From French, meaning no longer fashionable or current, perfectly fitting for things that have expired in relevance.
6 Letters
LAPSED: Frequently used for memberships, policies, or contracts that have run out of their valid period.
RANOUT: Directly indicates that a supply, time, or validity period has come to an end, as in "time ran out."
7 Letters
INVALID: Means something is no longer legally or officially acceptable or effective, akin to having expired.
8 Letters
OBSOLETE: Describes something that is no longer produced or used, often because it's been replaced by something newer and more efficient, implying its utility has expired.
9 Letters
OUTOFDATE: A very direct and common term for something that has passed its expiration date, especially food or information.
More About "expired crossword clue"
The clue "expired" is a classic in crosswords, challenging solvers to think beyond the most obvious definitions. While it often literally means something has passed its date of use (like food or a coupon), it can also refer to something that has come to an end, become obsolete, or lost its validity. This versatility makes it a rich source for various synonyms, depending on the specific context the setter implies.
Understanding the context is crucial when tackling such clues. Is the puzzle leaning towards a literal interpretation, requiring a word like "OUTOFDATE," or is it looking for a more abstract or figurative meaning, such as "DEAD" (as in 'dead issue') or "PASSE" (for something out of fashion)? The number of letters, and especially any already filled-in crossing letters, will often provide the strongest hints.
Crossword constructors love to play with words that have multiple meanings or applications, and "expired" is a prime example. It tests your vocabulary breadth and your ability to consider different scenarios where something might cease to be effective or current. Always consider words that denote completion, cessation, or a loss of vitality, whether temporary or permanent.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think in Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "expired," immediately brainstorm synonyms (ended, past, dead) and sometimes even antonyms can hint at a word part (e.g., if it were "not expired").
- Consider the Context: Does the puzzle have a theme (e.g., food, legal terms, history)? This can narrow down the potential meaning of "expired" to a specific domain.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match your brainstormed answers with the required letter count. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities.
- Use Crossing Letters: Any letters you already have from intersecting words are invaluable. They confirm or eliminate potential answers instantly.
- Look for Homophones/Homographs: While less common for "expired," some clues play on words that sound alike but have different meanings. Always be aware of such tricks.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'expired' mean in a crossword context?
'Expired' in a crossword context typically refers to something that has ended, run out, become invalid, or is no longer fresh/current. It can be literal (like food) or figurative (like a deadline or a trend).
How do I find synonyms for 'expired' for a crossword puzzle?
Think about different contexts where something 'expires'. Common synonyms include 'dead', 'old', 'gone', 'over', 'past', 'ended', 'lapsed', 'obsolete', 'invalid', or 'out of date'. Consider the number of letters and the surrounding clues.
Are there common tricks for 'expired' clues in crosswords?
Yes, 'expired' clues often lead to answers related to time running out, things becoming obsolete, or even simple words like 'over' or 'past'. Sometimes, it refers to a 'dead' language or a 'lapsed' membership. Always check the number of letters and any crossing letters you already have.