previously crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the clue "previously" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with brief explanations to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "previously crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ONCE: Refers to something that happened at one time in the past.
5 Letters
AFORE: An archaic or literary term meaning before, often used in older crosswords.
6 Letters
BEFORE: Indicates an event or state preceding another in time.
7 Letters
EARLIER: Meaning at a time in the past, or sooner than expected.
8 Letters
FORMERLY: In the past; in an earlier period.
HITHERTO: Until this time; previously.
More About "previously crossword clue"
The clue "previously" is a common staple in crosswords, often requiring a synonym for "in the past" or "at an earlier time." Its versatility means it can be clued in many ways, from direct synonyms to more nuanced indications of past states or events. Crossword setters love words like ONCE, BEFORE, and EARLIER because they fit a wide range of grid lengths and can be combined with other wordplay elements.
Understanding the context of the puzzle is key. Sometimes, "previously" might refer to a former name or status, like "previously known as" or "what it was previously." This can lead to answers that describe a preceding condition or identity. Always consider if the clue is looking for a simple time adverb or something that reflects a change in state over time.
Keeping a mental bank of common synonyms for "previously" across various letter counts will significantly speed up your solving process. Familiarity with archaic terms like "AFORE" or more formal ones like "HITHERTO" can also give you an edge, especially in more challenging or older puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for clues like "previously."
- Check Crossing Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These crucial clues will help confirm or rule out potential answers for "previously."
- Consider Nuance: While "previously" often means 'in the past', sometimes a setter might use it to imply a past state or an earlier name. Think about synonyms that capture this nuance if a direct time adverb doesn't fit.
- Look for Common Roots: Words derived from Latin or Old English can sometimes be clues. For "previously," consider words stemming from "pre-" or "fore-."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues have multiple answers for 'previously'?
Crossword setters use synonyms to create varied levels of difficulty and fit different grid patterns. 'Previously' has many synonyms like ONCE, BEFORE, EARLIER, and FORMERLY, allowing flexibility in puzzle construction.
How can I quickly find the right 'previously' answer?
To quickly determine the correct answer, first, check the number of letters required in your crossword grid. Then, consider any crossing letters you already have filled in to narrow down the options from common synonyms such as ONCE (4 letters), BEFORE (6 letters), EARLIER (7 letters), or FORMERLY (8 letters).
Are there any common misinterpretations of 'previously' in crosswords?
While 'previously' most often refers to a simple past time, it can sometimes hint at an anachronism, a former name, or a past state of something. Always consider the puzzle's theme, the setter's style, or other related clues for deeper context, especially in more cryptic crosswords.