shortly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "shortly crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "shortly crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SOON: Implying a brief period of time; in a short time from now.
ANON: An archaic term meaning 'soon' or 'in a short time'; often used in poetry or older texts.
5 Letters
BRIEF: Concise or lasting for a short time; often used to describe a quick visit or conversation.
7 Letters
ERELONG: Before long; in a short time, often with a slightly formal or literary tone.
8 Letters
ABRUPTLY: In a sudden, unexpected, or brief manner; implying a very short duration or quick cessation.
9 Letters
PRESENTLY: In a short time from now; soon; also can mean 'currently' depending on context, but 'soon' is common in crosswords.
More About "shortly crossword clue"
The clue "shortly" is a classic in the world of crosswords, designed to test a solver's vocabulary for temporal adverbs and expressions of immediacy. It often leads to straightforward synonyms like "soon" or "anon," but seasoned solvers know to also consider more nuanced interpretations. Depending on the puzzle's theme or difficulty, "shortly" might hint at words indicating an abrupt action, a brief duration, or even a concise summary.
Understanding the context of "shortly" is key. Is it part of a phrase? Is it an instruction for wordplay (e.g., "word shortly" implying a truncated word)? In most cases, however, it's a direct prompt for a word that signifies something happening in the near future or without much delay. Familiarity with common crossword patterns and frequent answers related to time will give you a significant advantage when encountering this clue.
Our goal at Crosswordanswer.co.uk is to provide you with not just the answers, but also the insights needed to improve your solving skills. By presenting various options for "shortly" alongside their letter counts and explanations, we aim to make your crossword journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms: For time-related clues like "shortly," always consider direct synonyms first. Words like SOON, ANON, and PRESENTLY are common contenders.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer box is your most crucial hint. It immediately narrows down possibilities from a broad list of synonyms.
- Consider Archaic Terms: Crosswords, especially older or more traditional ones, love archaic words. "Anon" is a prime example for "shortly."
- Look for Wordplay: If a direct synonym doesn't fit, consider if "shortly" is part of a wordplay clue, perhaps hinting at a shortened version of another word or an abbreviation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shortly' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'shortly' typically points to answers meaning 'soon,' 'anon,' 'in a brief time,' or 'without delay.' It's a common temporal indicator, often requiring synonyms for 'soon' or words describing quick actions or durations.
How can I quickly find short answers for crossword clues?
When seeking short answers, consider common abbreviations, two- or three-letter words, or very direct synonyms. For clues like 'shortly,' words such as SOON or ANON are frequent solutions. Also, check if the clue implies an abbreviation itself.
Are there common tricks for clues involving time, like 'shortly'?
Yes, clues involving time often rely on synonyms or archaic terms. For 'shortly,' 'anon' is a classic. Other tricks include wordplay where 'short' refers to a truncated word or a homophone. Always think about the specific context of the puzzle.