yearning for the past crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "yearning for the past," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "yearning for the past crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
REGRET: A feeling of sadness, repentance, or disappointment over something that has happened or been done, often with a desire that it had been different, leading to a yearning for a changed past.
8 Letters
HOMESICK: A feeling of longing for one's home, often implying a desire for the comfort and familiarity of past times and places associated with home.
9 Letters
NOSTALGIA: A sentimental longing or wistful affection for a period in the past, often with happy personal associations. This is the most direct and common answer for this clue.
More About "yearning for the past crossword clue"
The clue "yearning for the past" is a classic example of a crossword puzzle phrase that points directly to a strong emotion or state of mind. It requires solvers to think about words that convey a sense of longing for bygone days, events, or feelings. The most prominent answer, NOSTALGIA, perfectly captures this complex sentiment, blending wistfulness with a fondness for memories.
While NOSTALGIA is frequently the intended solution, crosswords are known for their cleverness. Depending on the grid's letter count and other intersecting words, alternative answers like REGRET or HOMESICK might fit. REGRET implies a wish to undo or re-experience a past event differently, reflecting a yearning for a changed past. HOMESICK, while typically about home, often encompasses a yearning for the comfort and familiarity of past experiences associated with that home.
Understanding the subtle differences between these terms can be key to solving the puzzle. Consider the context implied by other clues or the puzzle's theme. Is the yearning positive or negative? Is it about a specific place or a general time period? These considerations help narrow down the best fit among similar options.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For clues like "yearning for the past," consider whether the emotion is positive (nostalgia, wistfulness) or negative (regret, melancholy). This can guide you towards the correct synonym.
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is the most crucial filter for potential solutions and can immediately rule out many possibilities.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are invaluable for confirming or eliminating potential answers for "yearning for the past."
- Think of Synonyms and Related Concepts: Brainstorm words that are directly synonymous, or concepts that are closely associated with the clue. Don't just think of one-word answers; sometimes a phrase might be implied if the clue is longer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'yearning for the past' in crosswords?
The most common answer for 'yearning for the past' in crosswords is often 'NOSTALGIA'. This word perfectly encapsulates the feeling of a sentimental longing for the past.
Are there other words related to 'yearning for the past' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, other related terms include 'HOMESICK' (for longing for home or past comfort), 'REGRET' (if the yearning is accompanied by sadness over past events), or sometimes 'REMINISCE' (the act of recalling past events, often fondly).
How can I distinguish between similar crossword clues?
Pay close attention to the nuances in the clue's wording. Is it a feeling, an action, or a characteristic? The number of letters in the answer and any intersecting letters you already have will also help narrow down the possibilities. Look for synonyms, antonyms, or specific contexts.