before long crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "before long" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "before long crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERE: A poetic or archaic word meaning 'before', often used in the phrase 'ere long'.
4 Letters
ANON: An archaic or literary term meaning "soon" or "shortly."
SOON: In a short time; quickly.
7 Letters
SHORTLY: In a short time; soon.
9 Letters
PRESENTLY: In a short time; soon; at this moment.
More About "before long crossword clue"
"Before long" is a classic crossword clue that refers to something happening in the near future. It’s a versatile phrase that can have several synonyms, ranging from common temporal adverbs to more archaic terms. Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they allow for a variety of answers of different lengths, often testing a solver's vocabulary depth.
When you encounter "before long," think about words that convey immediacy or a short passage of time. The context of the puzzle and any intersecting letters will be crucial in determining whether the answer is a straightforward "SOON" or a more obscure "ANON" or "ERE". Paying attention to the tone or theme of the puzzle can also sometimes provide subtle hints.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Archaic Synonyms: For clues like "before long," often the answer isn't the most common modern word. Words like "ANON" or "ERE" (as in "ere long") are frequent crossword puzzle answers.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the possible answers to the number of available boxes. This is the quickest way to narrow down options when multiple synonyms exist.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck, fill in any crossing letters from other solved clues. These letters can often reveal or confirm the correct answer, especially for trickier clues like this one.
- Think of Phrases: While "before long" often points to a single word, sometimes crosswords incorporate parts of phrases. If a word like "ERE" is an option, consider if it's meant to be part of "ERE LONG" in a larger, multi-word answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "before long" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "before long" typically indicates an answer meaning "soon," "shortly," or "in a little while." It often points to synonyms or archaic words with that temporal meaning.
Are there common traps with "before long" clues?
Yes, sometimes the clue might point to a more archaic word like "ANON" or "ERE" (as in "ere long"). Be mindful of the letter count and common crosswordese, as well as considering if the clue is part of a larger phrase.
How can I find the right "before long" answer if I'm stuck?
First, consider the number of letters the answer requires. Then, think of common synonyms like SOON, ANON, or SHORTLY. If still stuck, look for intersecting letters from other solved clues or consider if the clue is part of a longer phrase, as this will significantly narrow down possibilities.