no longer in use crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "no longer in use crossword", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions sorted by letter count, complete with clear explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "no longer in use crossword" by Letter Count
7 Letters
DISUSED: No longer being used or accustomed to being used.
EXTINCT: No longer in existence; having died out.
ARCHAIC: Very old or old-fashioned; typically used of language or style no longer in everyday use.
DEFUNCT: No longer existing or functioning.
ANCIENT: Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in use or existing, or having been in existence for a very long time.
8 Letters
OBSOLETE: No longer produced or used; out of date.
OUTMODED: Old-fashioned; no longer current or in common use.
More About "no longer in use crossword"
The phrase "no longer in use" is a classic crossword clue that can point to a wide array of words, often testing a solver's vocabulary knowledge of synonyms for old, outdated, or vanished. These terms frequently appear in puzzles because they allow for clever wordplay and can be applied to many contexts, from technology and language to species and customs.
Clues like these are designed to make you think beyond the most obvious definitions. They might refer to words that have simply fallen out of common parlance, objects that have been replaced by newer inventions, or even abstract concepts that are no longer relevant. Understanding the nuances between similar words like "obsolete," "disused," and "extinct" is key to selecting the correct answer based on the specific puzzle's context.
Mastering these types of clues enriches your general knowledge and vocabulary. It also highlights the dynamic nature of language, where words and their meanings evolve over time, and some eventually fade into disuse, only to be resurrected in the challenging world of crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms carefully: When you see a clue like "no longer in use," immediately brainstorm all possible synonyms (e.g., old, outdated, archaic, defunct). Then, check which one fits the letter count and any intersecting letters.
- Look for context clues: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other clues might hint at whether the answer refers to technology, language, biology, or a general state of being. For instance, if other clues are historical, the answer might lean towards "archaic" or "ancient."
- Don't be afraid to guess and check: If you have a few options that fit the letter count, tentatively fill one in and see if it helps solve intersecting clues. Crosswords are often about iterative problem-solving.
- Utilize a thesaurus: A good thesaurus can be invaluable for clues like this. Online thesauri often provide a broader range of synonyms and antonyms, which can spark the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do crosswords use words that are 'no longer in use'?
Crossword puzzles, especially older or more challenging ones, frequently include archaic or obsolete terms. This is a common way to increase difficulty and test a solver's vocabulary depth, sometimes even pulling from specific historical contexts.
What's the difference between 'obsolete' and 'extinct' in crosswords?
'Obsolete' typically refers to things that are no longer used but might still exist (like an obsolete technology or word). 'Extinct' implies complete non-existence, often used for species or entire concepts that have vanished. In crosswords, context clues will help you differentiate.
How can I improve my vocabulary for old or disused words?
Reading classic literature, exploring etymology, and specifically studying lists of archaic English words can significantly help. Many crossword reference sites also compile lists of common 'old' words that appear frequently in puzzles. Consistent practice with challenging crosswords is also key.