former crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "former crossword" to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "former crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OLD: Refers to something from a previous time or period. A 'former crossword' can simply be an old crossword puzzle.
4 Letters
PAST: Indicating a time that has gone by. A 'former crossword' is a crossword from the time gone by.
7 Letters
VINTAGE: Denoting something of high quality from a past era, often implying classic or cherished. A 'former crossword' might be a vintage puzzle, perhaps from a famous constructor or a historical publication.
More About "former crossword"
The clue "former crossword" is an interesting one, playing on the temporal aspect of puzzles. It might refer to a puzzle from an earlier publication, a solved crossword that is no longer 'active,' or even a historical type of puzzle no longer in vogue. Crosswords, like language, evolve, and what was common in puzzles decades ago might be considered 'former' in today's context. This clue encourages solvers to think about synonyms for 'old,' 'past,' or even words related to archives or history.
Understanding the nuances of time-related clues is crucial in crosswords. Words like 'former,' 'old,' 'ex-,' 'past,' 'previous,' and 'ancient' are frequent indicators that the answer should refer to something from a bygone era. Sometimes, the 'former' aspect can even hint at a word with an 'ex-' prefix, though for a general noun like 'crossword,' a direct adjective is more likely.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Core Word: For clues like "former crossword," break down the clue into its components. "Former" is your indicator for time, and "crossword" is the subject. What are common synonyms for 'former' that fit various letter counts?
- Consider All Meanings: Some words have multiple meanings. "Former" can mean previous, or it can imply something that *used to be* something else. While less likely for this specific clue, always keep an open mind to different interpretations.
- Check Letter Count First: Once you have a few potential answers in mind (like OLD, PAST, VINTAGE), always check if their letter count matches the grid. This is often the quickest way to narrow down possibilities.
- Think About Common Crosswordese: Specific words often appear repeatedly in crosswords. Words denoting 'old' or 'past' are frequent, so having a mental list of these can speed up your solving process.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a good crossword clue?
A good crossword clue is often concise, misleading in a clever way, and provides just enough information for a solver to deduce the answer. They can be literal, cryptic, or involve wordplay like anagrams, homophones, or double meanings. The best clues often have a 'aha!' moment.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills?
Consistent practice is key. Start with easier puzzles and gradually move to more challenging ones. Familiarize yourself with common crosswordese (frequently appearing words), learn common abbreviations, and pay attention to clue indicators (e.g., 'perhaps' for anagrams, 'sounds like' for homophones). Using a dictionary and thesaurus can also be very helpful.
Are there different types of crosswords?
Yes, crosswords come in various forms! The most common are standard (or American-style) crosswords, which are largely definitional. Then there are cryptic crosswords, which use intricate wordplay and often have two parts to each clue. Other types include quick crosswords, themed puzzles, and freestyle grids, each offering a unique challenge.