late crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: How can I solve a tricky 'late' crossword clue?

To solve a tricky 'late' clue, consider the context. 'Late' can refer to time (tardy, delayed), someone deceased (defunct), or something recently happening (recent, new). Always check the surrounding letters and the clue's precise wording for hints. Sometimes, it might be an anagram or a play on words.

Q: What are the most common synonyms for 'late' in crosswords?

Common synonyms for 'late' in crosswords include TARDY, BELATED, OVERDUE, PAST (as in past due), DELAYED, and sometimes even DEFUNCT (if referring to someone who has passed away). The exact answer depends on the number of letters and the specific nuance the setter is aiming for.

Q: Does 'late' ever refer to something other than time in crosswords?

Yes, absolutely! While often referring to time, 'late' can also be used to mean 'deceased' or 'recently passed' (e.g., 'the late Mr. Smith'). In some clever clues, it might even imply something 'after' or 'concluding'. Always be open to multiple interpretations beyond just temporal lateness.

Welcome! If you're pondering the "late crossword clue," you've arrived at the perfect destination. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle. Find your answer quickly and confidently!

Solutions for "late crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

PAST: Beyond the expected or due time, as in "past due."

5 Letters

TARDY: Behind schedule or delayed, often used for people or things that are slow to arrive.

7 Letters

BELATED: Coming or happening later than was expected or desired, often with a sense of regret for the delay.

OVERDUE: Not having arrived, happened, or been done by the expected time, commonly used for library books or payments.

LAGGING: Falling behind in movement, progress, or development; not keeping up with the pace.

More About "late crossword clue"

The word "late" is a surprisingly versatile clue in the world of crosswords, often leading solvers down multiple paths. Its most straightforward meaning, relating to time, typically points to answers like TARDY, BELATED, or OVERDUE. However, experienced crossword setters love to play with its nuances, which can sometimes throw off even seasoned solvers.

Beyond temporal tardiness, "late" can also refer to someone who is deceased, as in "the late Mr. Smith." This requires a completely different set of synonyms, such as DECEASED, DEFUNCT, or even EX. Furthermore, "late" might imply something recent or newly occurred, as in "late-breaking news," suggesting words like RECENT or NEW. Always consider the surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme for additional context.

Understanding these multiple interpretations is key to mastering clues involving "late." It's a prime example of how crossword puzzles test your vocabulary depth and your ability to think flexibly about word meanings. By keeping these various angles in mind, you'll be much better equipped to crack those tricky "late" clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Multiple Meanings: As seen with "late," many words have several meanings. If your first thought doesn't fit, think about other definitions of the clue word.
Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters in the answer grid. This immediately narrows down your options and helps eliminate unsuitable words.
Look for Context Clues: The words around a blank, the category of the clue (e.g., "A.M. starter" for "EARLY"), or even the puzzle's title can offer vital hints.
Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Crosswords often rely on direct synonyms. For "late," consider its opposite for clues like "not early."
Use a Crossword Solver Wisely: If you're truly stuck, use a tool like ours to get hints, but try to understand the explanation for future puzzles.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I solve a tricky "late" crossword clue?

To solve a tricky "late" clue, consider the context. "Late" can refer to time (tardy, delayed), someone deceased (defunct), or something recently happening (recent, new). Always check the surrounding letters and the clue's precise wording for hints. Sometimes, it might be an anagram or a play on words.

What are the most common synonyms for "late" in crosswords?

Common synonyms for "late" in crosswords include TARDY, BELATED, OVERDUE, PAST (as in past due), DELAYED, and sometimes even DEFUNCT (if referring to someone who has passed away). The exact answer depends on the number of letters and the specific nuance the setter is aiming for.

Does "late" ever refer to something other than time in crosswords?

Yes, absolutely! While often referring to time, "late" can also be used to mean "deceased" or "recently passed" (e.g., "the late Mr. Smith"). In some clever clues, it might even imply something "after" or "concluding". Always be open to multiple interpretations beyond just temporal lateness.