crossword clue for before – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue 'crossword clue for before', you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue for before" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERE: An archaic or poetic term meaning 'before'.
5 Letters
PRIOR: Occurring or existing before in time or order.
AHEAD: In advance of, or further forward in space or time.
6 Letters
FORMER: Having been at an earlier time; preceding in time.
8 Letters
PREVIOUS: Happening or existing before a particular event or time.
More About "crossword clue for before"
The clue "before" is a staple in crossword puzzles, often challenging solvers to think beyond the obvious synonyms. It can refer to a temporal sequence, indicating something that happened earlier in time, or it can denote spatial position, meaning in front of something. Furthermore, "before" can also imply a precedence in rank or order, such as being 'above' or 'superior to' another item in a list.
Understanding the nuances of "before" is crucial for solving. Crossword setters frequently use this clue to prompt answers ranging from archaic terms like ERE, which is a favorite for shorter word counts, to more contemporary synonyms like PRIOR or AHEAD. The context of the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the puzzle often provide the necessary hint to discern the exact meaning intended by the setter.
Always consider if the clue is asking for a word that means 'earlier than', 'in front of', or 'in the presence of' (as in 'appearing before a judge'). This adaptability makes "before" a versatile and sometimes tricky clue, rewarding solvers who can think broadly about its various applications.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms: The clue "before" has many synonyms. Think of words like "prior," "earlier," "preceding," "erstwhile," or even archaic terms like "ere" which is a common crossword answer.
- Check for Context: Is "before" referring to time, position, or order? "Before dinner" implies time (prior), "before the house" implies position (in front of), and "before the court" implies appearance (in the presence of).
- Look at Surrounding Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This can quickly narrow down the possibilities for "before" from a wide range of synonyms to the exact word that fits.
- Think Archaic/Poetic: Crossword constructors often rely on older or less common words, especially for shorter clues. For "before," words like ERE are frequently used, so keep them in mind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common short answers for 'before' in crosswords?
The most common short answer is ERE, often used in poetry or archaic contexts. PRIOR and AHEAD are also frequently seen for slightly longer puzzles.
How does the clue 'before' differ from 'ahead'?
While similar, 'before' often implies precedence in time or order, whereas 'ahead' can also mean 'in front of' spatially, or 'making progress'. In crosswords, context is key to distinguish them.
Are there different types of 'before' clues?
Yes, 'before' can indicate temporal sequence (e.g., "prior to"), spatial position (e.g., "in front of"), or precedence/rank (e.g., "above"). Always consider the specific nuance implied by the clue and the puzzle's theme.