former crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on "former crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "former crossword clue" by Letter Count
2 Letters
EX: Common prefix meaning former, often used for previous roles or relationships (e.g., ex-president, ex-spouse).
3 Letters
OLD: A straightforward and frequent synonym for former or past, referring to something that is not new.
4 Letters
PAST: Referring to a time that has gone by, often used interchangeably with former when describing a previous state or event.
5 Letters
PRIOR: Meaning existing or happening before something else in time or order. A more formal synonym for former.
6 Letters
BYGONE: Pertaining to a past time or era, often implying something that is no longer relevant or common.
8 Letters
PREVIOUS: Occurring or existing before in time or order. A direct synonym frequently used in crosswords.
More About "former crossword clue"
The word "former" is a staple in crossword puzzles, often appearing as a direct synonym for words like "old," "past," or "previous." Its versatility allows it to fit various letter counts, making it a valuable clue for setters and a common challenge for solvers. Understanding the subtle nuances between its synonyms can often be the key to cracking the puzzle.
When you encounter "former" in a crossword, consider the context of the entire clue. Does it imply a previous state, a past position, or simply something that happened earlier in time? For instance, "former spouse" will almost certainly lead to "EX," while "former times" might point to "OLD" or "BYGONE." The number of letters required is also a crucial hint, narrowing down the possibilities significantly.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide not just the answers, but also the insights that help you become a better solver. By exploring the various solutions for "former," you gain a deeper understanding of how these common clues are constructed and solved.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of boxes provided in the grid. This is your most immediate filter for potential answers.
- Look for Context Clues: Words accompanying "former" in the clue can guide you to the precise meaning. For example, "former president" strongly suggests "EX."
- Think of Wordplay: Sometimes "former" might hint at a word that means "a person who forms" (e.g., a "mold"). While less common for this specific clue, it's a good general strategy.
- Check Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from crossing words, use them to eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the correct one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do clues like "former" have multiple answers in crosswords?
Crossword clues often have multiple answers due to synonyms, different shades of meaning, or the need to fit various letter counts within the puzzle grid. "Former" can refer to something simply old (OLD), something that came before (PRIOR, PREVIOUS), or a previous status (EX).
How can I distinguish between "EX" and "OLD" when both mean "former"?
The context of the clue is key. "EX" often implies a previous role or relationship, e.g., 'ex-wife' or 'ex-president.' "OLD" is more general and refers to something that is simply from the past or aged. Pay attention to any other words in the clue that might specify the type of 'former' intended.
Are there other common words for "former" in crosswords that are less obvious?
Yes, less obvious synonyms for "former" can include ANCIENT, BYGONE, DEFUNCT, LATE (as in 'the late queen'), or even words related to beginnings, like INITIAL or ORIGINAL, depending on the nuance of the clue. Always consider the letter count and intersecting letters.