short time crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all possible answers for the crossword clue "short time crossword clue", organized by letter count to help you quickly find the solution you need. We provide concise explanations for each word, ensuring you understand why it fits.
Solutions for "short time crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BIT: A very brief period, as in "a bit of time."
ERA: A distinct or notable period in history or a person's life, implying a defined, often short, segment of time within a larger context.
5 Letters
SPELL: A short period, often of a particular activity, condition, or weather, e.g., "a short spell of rain."
WHILE: A period of time, often brief, as in "stay for a while."
6 Letters
MOMENT: A very brief period of time; an instant, commonly understood as a 'short time'.
7 Letters
INSTANT: A precise moment in time, or a very brief period, synonymous with a 'short time'.
More About "short time crossword clue"
The clue "short time" is a common one in crosswords, often requiring solvers to think of various synonyms for brevity or specific, limited periods. These can range from common words like 'moment' or 'while' to more specific terms like 'era' or 'spell', depending on the context and the required letter count. The ambiguity allows for flexible puzzle construction but demands precise thinking from the solver.
When encountering this clue, consider the various nuances of 'short time'. Does it imply a quick action (instant)? A segment of history (era)? Or simply an unspecified brief duration (bit, while)? The surrounding letters in the grid are your best allies in distinguishing between the many valid answers this clue can have.
Crossword setters frequently use such flexible clues to add complexity. Mastering these common yet multi-answer clues like "short time" is a hallmark of an experienced crossword solver, as it often involves combining general knowledge with contextual deduction from the puzzle grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms Broadly: For clues like "short time," think beyond the most obvious synonyms. Words that refer to specific, defined periods (like ERA) or informal expressions (like BIT) can often be the correct answer.
- Utilize Letter Count: Always check the required number of letters first. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, especially for clues with many potential answers.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The most crucial tip for ambiguous clues is to fill in intersecting words first. The letters revealed will often make the correct "short time" answer immediately obvious, eliminating other possibilities.
- Think About Context: Sometimes, the theme of the puzzle or the setter's style can provide subtle hints. For instance, if other clues are historical, an answer like 'ERA' might be favored.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'short time' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'short time' often include words like BIT, ERA, SPELL, WHILE, MOMENT, and INSTANT. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and the surrounding clues in the puzzle.
How do I determine the correct 'short time' answer if multiple options fit the length?
If multiple answers fit the letter count for 'short time crossword clue', look at the intersecting letters from other clues. The context of the puzzle, such as whether it's a themed crossword or a specific type of clue (e.g., a pun), can also help narrow down the options.
Why do some crossword clues, like 'short time', have so many possible answers?
Clues that refer to common concepts or measurements, like time, often have many synonyms or related terms. This is a common feature of crosswords, as it allows setters flexibility and requires solvers to use logic and intersecting letters to find the precise word.