no longer useful or in fashion crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "no longer useful or in fashion," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Find the perfect fit by letter count below!
Solutions for "no longer useful or in fashion crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OLD: A simple and common term for something that is not new, which can encompass both being out of use and out of style.
5 Letters
DATED: Implies something is old-fashioned and no longer current or stylish. It often refers to something that shows its age.
PASSE: A French term meaning "past" or "gone," used in English to describe something no longer fashionable or current, often with a slightly dismissive tone.
8 Letters
OBSOLETE: Describes something that is no longer produced or used because it has been replaced by something new and better, or is simply outdated and no longer practical.
OUTMODED: Refers to something that is no longer modern or fashionable; it has fallen out of style and is considered old-fashioned.
More About "no longer useful or in fashion crossword clue"
The clue "no longer useful or in fashion" is a classic crossword staple that tests your vocabulary related to obsolescence and changing trends. These words often refer to items, ideas, or practices that have outlived their purpose, been replaced by newer alternatives, or simply fallen out of public favor. Understanding the nuances between words like "obsolete" (often related to function or technology) and "outmoded" (more related to style or common practice) can be key to selecting the correct answer.
Crossword setters love this type of clue because it allows for a range of answers with varying letter counts, from short, general terms like "OLD" to longer, more specific ones like "OBSOLETE." Context within the puzzle, such as surrounding letters or theme, can often guide you to the precise word needed. Always consider if the clue leans more towards something being technologically superseded or simply unfashionable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Nuance: For clues like "no longer useful or in fashion," consider if the emphasis is more on utility (e.g., a broken tool, an outdated piece of software) or on style (e.g., an old dress, a forgotten dance move). This can help differentiate between similar-length answers.
- Check Cross-References: If you have a few letters filled in from intersecting words, use them as strong hints. Sometimes, a single letter can eliminate several possible answers.
- Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorming words that mean the opposite (e.g., modern, useful, current) can sometimes trigger the correct answer for the clue. Also, consider different synonyms for "old" or "out."
- Consider Slang or Colloquialisms: While "no longer useful or in fashion" typically yields formal words, sometimes shorter answers can be more informal. Always keep an open mind to different registers of language.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find the right answer for "no longer useful or in fashion" in a crossword?
When encountering this clue, consider both aspects: 'no longer useful' (e.g., OBSOLETE, EXPIRED) and 'no longer in fashion' (e.g., OUTMODED, DATED, PASSE). Check the number of letters required by the grid to narrow down the options. Common answers include OBSOLETE, OUTMODED, DATED, PASSE, and OLD.
What's the difference between "obsolete" and "outmoded" in this context?
'Obsolete' typically implies something is no longer produced or functional, often due to technological advancement or lack of demand – focusing on utility. 'Outmoded' more specifically refers to something that is no longer considered modern or stylish, focusing on fashion or convention. While they can overlap, 'obsolete' often suggests a complete replacement, whereas 'outmoded' suggests simply being unfashionable.
Are there common word lengths for "no longer useful or in fashion" type clues?
Answers for this type of clue can vary significantly in length. You might find short answers like 'OLD' (3 letters) or 'OUT' (3 letters), medium answers like 'DATED' (5 letters) or 'PASSE' (5 letters), and longer ones such as 'ANCIENT' (7 letters), 'ARCHAIC' (7 letters), 'OBSOLETE' (8 letters), or 'OUTMODED' (8 letters). Always rely on the letter count provided in the puzzle.