used to be crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and stuck on the clue "used to be", you've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive answers by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "used to be crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WAS: The past simple form of 'to be', commonly used to indicate a past state or existence.
4 Letters
ONCE: Signifies something happened or existed at a past time, fitting the meaning of 'used to be'.
6 Letters
FORMER: Describes something that previously existed or was the case, indicating a 'used to be' status.
7 Letters
EXSITED: Past tense of 'exist', meaning to have been real or present, which aligns well with 'used to be'.
8 Letters
FORMERLY: An adverb meaning in the past or previously, a direct synonym for 'used to be'.
More About "used to be crossword clue"
The phrase "used to be" in a crossword clue often points towards words that denote a past state, a prior existence, or something that was true in the past but is no longer. This can encompass a range of linguistic forms, from simple past tense verbs to adjectives describing a previous condition, or adverbs indicating a past time. Understanding this core meaning is crucial for unlocking the correct answer.
Crossword setters love to use this phrase because it allows for a variety of answers depending on the context and required letter count. For example, a three-letter answer might simply be "WAS," while a longer answer could be "FORMERLY" or "EXSITED." The key is to consider what role the "used to be" concept plays in the broader clue and how it connects to other words or phrases in the puzzle.
Paying attention to the nuance can save you time. Is the clue hinting at a person's former profession, a building's past function, or a general state of affairs? Each subtle difference might lead to a different correct answer from our list, making context a powerful tool in your crossword-solving arsenal.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Letter Count: Always check the number of boxes. This is your most direct hint and will immediately narrow down the potential answers for "used to be".
- Consider Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them! They can quickly confirm or rule out a potential answer.
- Think Synonyms and Context: "Used to be" implies a past state. Brainstorm synonyms for 'past', 'previous', 'former', or 'existed'. Sometimes the clue will imply a specific type of past state, guiding you further.
- Look for Part-of-Speech Clues: Is the clue implying an adverb, an adjective, or a verb? For instance, "used to be (adv.)" might point directly to "FORMERLY".
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'used to be' imply in a crossword clue?
In crossword puzzles, 'used to be' typically implies a past state, a former condition, or something that existed previously but no longer does. Answers will often be past tense verbs, adverbs of time, or adjectives describing a prior status, focusing on a change from past to present.
Are there common synonyms for 'used to be' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related concepts for 'used to be' include 'WAS', 'ONCE', 'FORMER', 'PREVIOUS', 'EXISTED', or 'FORMERLY'. The specific context of the puzzle and the number of letters in the grid will help you determine the exact answer.
How do I choose between multiple possible answers for 'used to be'?
The primary way to choose is by matching the letter count provided by the crossword grid. If multiple answers fit the length, consider the surrounding letters already filled in, or if there's a nuanced meaning in the full clue (e.g., 'used to be a ruler' vs. 'used to be alive').