What does 'look forward to' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'look forward to' typically implies a sense of expectation, hope, or anticipation. The answer will be a single verb or a short phrase that captures this meaning, such as 'HOPE', 'EXPECT', 'AWAIT', or 'ANTICIPATE'.

Are there synonyms for 'look forward to' that are common in crosswords?

Yes, common synonyms or related terms often used in crosswords include AWAIT, EXPECT, HOPE, and ANTICIPATE. Depending on the letter count, you might also find less common but fitting alternatives.

How can I determine the correct answer when there are multiple possibilities?

The best way to determine the correct answer is by checking the letter count and how the word fits with intersecting clues. Sometimes, the specific nuance of the clue (e.g., 'eagerly look forward to' vs. simply 'look forward to') might point to a particular answer. Always verify with surrounding letters.

look forward to crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find all potential solutions for the clue "look forward to crossword clue", along with detailed explanations to help you understand the context and improve your puzzle-solving skills.

Solutions for "look forward to crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

HOPE: To desire with expectation of obtainment or fulfillment; to anticipate with confidence.

5 Letters

AWAIT: To wait for; to expect; to be ready for something to happen.

6 Letters

EXPECT: To regard as likely to happen; to believe that someone or something will come.

10 Letters

ANTICIPATE: To regard as probable; to expect or predict; to look forward to with eagerness.

More About "look forward to crossword clue"

The phrase "look forward to" is a common idiom that signifies a feeling of eager anticipation or positive expectation about a future event. In crosswords, clues based on idioms often require solvers to think about the core meaning rather than a literal interpretation. For instance, while you might literally 'look' ahead, the 'forward to' part transforms it into a concept of mental or emotional expectation.

Crossword setters frequently use such phrases to test a solver's vocabulary depth and ability to grasp nuances. Understanding the various synonyms for "look forward to" – from the simple 'HOPE' to the more formal 'ANTICIPATE' – is key to selecting the correct answer based on the number of letters provided in the grid and the context of surrounding clues.

When you encounter this clue, consider the intensity of the 'forward-looking' aspect. Is it a gentle hope, a firm expectation, or an eager anticipation? The chosen answer will fit perfectly with the other letters and the overall theme of the puzzle.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options for clues like "look forward to" which can have multiple synonyms.
Consider Nuances: Pay attention to any subtle modifiers in the clue. Is it "eagerly look forward to," "just look forward to," or "look forward to with dread"? (Though the last is less likely for this specific clue, it illustrates the point of modifiers). These can point to specific synonyms like 'ANTICIPATE' vs. 'EXPECT'.
Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: The most reliable method. Even if you have a strong candidate for "look forward to," confirm it by seeing if its letters fit logically with the words from perpendicular clues.
Think of Common Crossword Answers: Many common idioms have established crossword answers that appear repeatedly. Building a mental database of these can speed up your solving process.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common answer for 'look forward to' in crosswords?

The most common answers tend to be AWAIT or EXPECT, as they are versatile and fit common letter counts. However, HOPE and ANTICIPATE are also frequently seen, depending on the puzzle's difficulty and required length.

Can 'look forward to' be a phrase answer in a crossword?

While often seeking a single-word synonym, sometimes crosswords might allow short phrase answers, especially if hyphenated. However, for "look forward to," single-word alternatives like ANTICIPATE or EXPECT are far more common as direct solutions.

How do I differentiate between 'EXPECT' and 'ANTICIPATE'?

Both words imply looking forward, but 'ANTICIPATE' often carries a stronger sense of eager expectation or making preparations in advance, whereas 'EXPECT' can be a more neutral belief that something will happen. In crosswords, the number of letters is usually the primary differentiator, with 'ANTICIPATE' being longer.