past crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "past crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "past crossword clue" by Letter Count
2 Letters
EX: A common crossword answer referring to a former partner or something that was previously.
3 Letters
AGO: Indicates a period of time that has elapsed before the present moment.
4 Letters
GONE: Refers to something that has departed, ended, or is no longer present, directly fitting 'past'.
6 Letters
FORMER: Meaning belonging to or occurring in an earlier time, a direct synonym for 'past'.
7 Letters
ELAPSED: Describes time that has passed or gone by, a precise fit for the clue.
8 Letters
PREVIOUS: Occurring before in time or order, another strong synonym for 'past'.
More About "past crossword clue"
The clue "past" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms and contexts. Its simplicity belies the range of possible answers it can lead to, depending on the specific nuance the puzzle setter intends. It can refer to time that has gone by (e.g., AGO, ELAPSED), something that existed previously (e.g., FORMER, EX), or even a physical action of moving beyond a point (though less common for a single word clue).
Understanding the different interpretations of "past" is key to quickly solving these clues. Pay attention to the number of letters required, as this often narrows down the possibilities significantly. For instance, a two-letter answer is highly likely to be "EX," while a longer answer might point to more descriptive synonyms like "PREVIOUS" or "ANCIENT."
Crossword constructors love to play on words with multiple meanings. While "past" primarily means 'gone by in time', it can also subtly hint at its other grammatical forms or even homophones in more cryptic puzzles. Always keep an open mind and consider all angles when tackling such a versatile clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Word Lengths: Always start by checking the number of letters in the answer. This is your most powerful filter for potential solutions.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For clues like "past," think of all direct synonyms. Sometimes, thinking of antonyms (like "future" or "present") can also trigger related concepts.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Short answers related to "past" often involve prefixes like "EX-" or common time adverbs like "AGO."
- Context is King: If you have surrounding letters or already solved clues, use them to infer the exact context the puzzle setter implies for "past." Is it historical? Personal? Temporal?
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to approach a crossword clue like 'past'?
When encountering a clue like 'past', consider its various meanings: time gone by, a former state, or even passing by something physically. Think about common synonyms for each interpretation and their corresponding word lengths. Also, look at surrounding letters if you have any already filled in.
Are there common tricks related to 'past' in crosswords?
Yes, 'past' can often refer to the prefix 'EX-' (as in 'ex-president' or 'ex-spouse'), or words like AGO, GONE, or FORMER. Sometimes, it might hint at a verb tense (e.g., 'went' as the past of 'go'). Always consider both literal and idiomatic meanings.
How can I improve my speed in solving 'past' related clues?
Familiarize yourself with common synonyms and short answers for time-related concepts. Practice regularly with puzzles that feature historical or temporal themes. Building a strong vocabulary, especially with words indicating sequence or prior events, will significantly boost your solving speed.