period of time crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "period of time crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "period of time crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AGE: A distinct period in history or a person's life.
ERA: A long and distinct period of history with specific characteristics.
4 Letters
TERM: A fixed or limited period for which something is intended to last, like a school or contractual period.
5 Letters
EPOCH: A period of time in history or a person's life, typically one marked by notable events or particular characteristics.
PHASE: A distinct stage or point of development in a process or a cycle.
7 Letters
STRETCH: A continuous or unbroken period of time, often implying a considerable duration.
8 Letters
INTERVAL: An intervening period of time between two events, points, or states.
DURATION: The length of time that something continues or lasts.
More About "period of time crossword clue"
The clue "period of time" is a common staple in crosswords, and its simplicity often belies the variety of answers it can yield. Depending on the context and the number of letters, it can refer to anything from a fleeting moment to an extensive historical era. Solvers must consider the specific nuances of synonyms for 'period' and how they might fit within the grid.
Crossword setters often use this clue to test a solver's vocabulary depth regarding temporal concepts. For instance, a 'period of time' might be an 'age' when discussing historical divisions, a 'term' in an academic context, or a 'spell' if it refers to a short, indefinite duration. The key to solving such clues lies in analyzing not just the core meaning but also any implied characteristics, such as length, significance, or type of activity associated with that period.
Understanding these subtle distinctions is crucial. An "era" suggests a long period, often defined by a dominant figure or characteristic (e.g., the Jazz Era), while an "epoch" might signify a starting point of a new, significant period. By expanding your mental dictionary of time-related words, you'll be better equipped to tackle this versatile crossword clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by looking at the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "period of time" immensely.
- Look for Context Clues: Check if there are any other words in the clue that provide more context. For example, "long period of time" might suggest ERA or EPOCH, while "brief period of time" could point to SPELL or STAGE.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues. These are often the most reliable way to confirm or eliminate potential answers, especially for common words like those describing time periods.
- Think Synonyms Broadly: Don't just think "time." Think of words that imply a segment, duration, phase, or era. The synonym pool for 'period' is quite large and varied.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I identify the correct 'period of time' answer?
To identify the correct answer, consider the number of letters required, any surrounding clue words (like 'brief', 'long', 'historical'), and intersecting letters from other clues. The context of the puzzle itself can also hint at the specific type of period (e.g., school term, geological epoch).
Are there common abbreviations for time periods in crosswords?
Yes, common abbreviations like 'YR' (year), 'MO' (month), 'WK' (week), or even 'HR' (hour) can appear if the clue hints at an abbreviation (e.g., 'Annual span, abbr.'). Always check the clue for signals like 'abbr.', 'for short', or a short letter count that points to an abbreviation.
What's the difference between an 'era' and an 'epoch'?
Both 'era' and 'epoch' refer to significant periods of time. An 'era' (e.g., Victorian Era) typically denotes a longer, distinct period characterized by particular events or features. An 'epoch' (e.g., a new epoch in science) can refer to a similar long period, but often emphasizes a beginning or a turning point, marking the commencement of a new historical period or development.