until this time crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "until this time" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled the most common solutions and their explanations to help you complete your grid effortlessly.
Solutions for "until this time crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SOFAR: An idiomatic expression meaning 'up to this point in time or degree,' commonly found in crosswords for clues like 'until now' or 'up to here.'
6 Letters
HERETO: A more formal term, literally meaning 'to this place or thing,' but often used in older or more classical puzzles to mean 'until now' or 'up to this point.'
8 Letters
UNTILNOW: The most direct and frequently encountered answer for "until this time," indicating an event or state that has persisted up to the present moment.
More About "until this time crossword clue"
"Until this time" is a common phrase that indicates a continuous state or action up to the present moment. In crosswords, clues like this often test your knowledge of synonyms and archaic terms that convey the same meaning. The most straightforward answer, "UNTILNOW," directly translates the phrase. However, experienced crossword solvers know that constructors often use less obvious synonyms to increase the challenge.
Words like "HERETO" or "SOFAR" are perfect examples of alternative answers that fit the clue's meaning but require a broader vocabulary. "HERETO" carries a slightly formal or legalistic tone, implying "up to this point in a document or process," which can extend to a temporal sense. "SOFAR" is more colloquial and implies progress or status achieved up to the current instance. Understanding these nuances helps in selecting the correct word based on the puzzle's style and the available letter count.
Mastering these types of clues involves not just knowing the direct translation but also understanding the various contexts and shades of meaning that can be applied to "until this time." This often involves recalling less common adverbs or idiomatic expressions that convey temporality or progression up to the present.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the blank squares in the grid. This is the most crucial step as it immediately narrows down your options for the "until this time" clue.
- Consider Synonyms and Formalities: For clues involving time, think beyond obvious synonyms. Puzzles often use formal (e.g., HERETO) or informal (e.g., SOFAR) variations. If UNTILNOW doesn't fit, explore other words that mean 'up to the present moment'.
- Check Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues. These letters will provide critical hints for the "until this time" answer, especially if you're stuck between multiple possibilities of the same length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "until this time" mean in a crossword clue?
It generally refers to something that has been true or occurring up to the present moment, often prompting answers like UNTILNOW, HERETO, or SOFAR.
Are there synonyms for "until this time" that often appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or phrases with similar meanings include "hitherto," "as of yet," "up to now," and "up to this point." These are frequently used by puzzle constructors to add variety.
How can I identify the correct length for "until this time" answers?
Pay attention to the number of blank squares provided in the puzzle grid. Crossword clues specifically indicate the required length for the answer, and our site provides solutions by letter count to match, making it easier to find the perfect fit.