until this time crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Find all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the crossword clue "until this time crossword". We've compiled the answers by letter count to help you quickly solve your puzzle.
Solutions for "until this time crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
YET: Meaning 'up to the present time', often used to express continuation or a state of affairs.
5 Letters
SOFAR: Indicates the extent to which something has happened or progressed up to this point.
7 Letters
UPTONOW: A common phrase meaning 'until this moment' or 'up to the present time'.
8 Letters
HITHERTO: A more formal term meaning 'until this time' or 'up to this point'.
More About "until this time crossword"
The phrase "until this time" is a common concept in language, signifying a period leading up to the present moment. In crosswords, clues based on this phrase test a solver's vocabulary for synonyms that precisely convey this temporal boundary. These answers often reflect the progressive nature of events or conditions.
Understanding the nuances of words like YET, SOFAR, UPTONOW, and HITHERTO is key. While all relate to the current moment, they can carry subtle differences in formality or implication, which crosswords sometimes leverage to make clues more challenging. For instance, 'hitherto' suggests a more formal or historical context compared to the everyday 'up to now'.
Crossword setters frequently use such time-related clues to gauge a solver's familiarity with adverbs and adverbial phrases. The length of the answer is crucial, but also consider if the clue implies ongoing action, a state that has just changed, or a cumulative total. This holistic approach will help you pinpoint the exact word needed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters in the grid against your proposed answer. Even one letter off can derail your entire solution. For "until this time", answers like YET (3) and SOFAR (5) highlight the importance of precise counting.
- Consider Formality: Some synonyms of "until this time" are more formal (like HITHERTO) while others are colloquial (like UPTONOW). Match the tone of the clue to the potential answer.
- Look for Context Clues: Other solved words in the grid can give you letter patterns that narrow down possibilities. If you have an 'H' at the start for an 8-letter word, HITHERTO becomes a strong contender.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'until this time' in crosswords?
The most common answers for 'until this time' often include YET, SOFAR, or HITHERTO, depending on the number of letters required by the puzzle.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'YET' and 'SO FAR'?
While both convey a sense of time up to the present, 'YET' can imply an expectation of something to happen or a contrast, as in 'not yet'. 'SO FAR' specifically refers to the progress or extent achieved up to the current moment. The number of letters in the grid is usually the biggest clue, but context from surrounding words can also help.
Are there any less common synonyms for 'until this time'?
Yes, less common or more formal synonyms might include HITHERTO, THUSFAR, or as an archaic usage, ERENOW. These are often used in more challenging or themed crosswords.