previously crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: What is an archaic answer for 'previously'?

A common archaic answer for 'previously' in crosswords is ERST. This four-letter word is frequently used in puzzles to challenge solvers with less common vocabulary, often paired with older or more obscure clues.

Q: How can I distinguish between 'prior' and 'before' when solving a crossword?

While both 'prior' and 'before' mean 'previously', their usage can sometimes differ. 'Prior' often implies a prerequisite or a preceding event that directly influences what comes next (e.g., 'prior experience'). 'Before' is more general, simply indicating an earlier point in time or space. In crosswords, the number of letters and intersecting words are usually the key deciders.

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "previously," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's find that elusive word!

Solutions for "previously crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

ERST: An archaic word meaning "formerly" or "once." Often used in crosswords when a shorter, older term is required.

ONCE: At some time in the past; formerly.

5 Letters

PRIOR: Existing or happening before something else, or before a particular time. Implies a preceding condition or event.

6 Letters

BEFORE: Indicates something that happened at an earlier time or in a preceding position. A very common and direct synonym for 'previously'.

7 Letters

EARLIER: Happening or done before the usual or expected time. A comparative form of 'early', often fitting for 'previously'.

8 Letters

FORMERLY: In the past; at an earlier time. A direct and often interchangeable synonym for 'previously'.

More About "previously crossword clue"

"Previously" is a common adverb that indicates something happened at an earlier time or in a preceding manner. In crosswords, clues like "previously" are versatile, leading to a variety of possible answers depending on the required length and specific context. Solvers often need to consider synonyms for "in the past," "before," or "formerly." The challenge often lies in finding the exact word that fits the number of letters and intersects correctly with other words in the grid.

Clues indicating past tense or prior events are a staple of crossword puzzles. Recognizing words like "previously," "ago," "past," or "before" signals that you'll be looking for adverbs or adjectives that convey a sense of time displacement. Be prepared for both common words and more archaic terms that setters love to use to test your vocabulary, like 'ERST' for "previously".

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Think Synonyms: For temporal clues like "previously," always brainstorm a wide range of synonyms that mean "before" or "in the past." Words like "earlier," "prior," "once," and "formerly" are common go-tos.
Consider Archaic Terms: Crossword setters often employ older, less common words to fill shorter spaces. If you're stuck on a two-to-four-letter answer for a time-related clue, consider archaic terms such as ERST.
Check Tense and Form: While "previously" is an adverb, answers might sometimes be adjectives or other forms depending on the clue's nuance. Always ensure the word form and tense of your potential answer align with the clue.
Use Crossing Letters: The most reliable way to confirm a "previously" answer is by checking its intersecting letters. If you have a few letters already filled in from crossing words, they will quickly narrow down the possibilities.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do crosswords often have multiple answers for "previously"?

The English language is rich with synonyms and adverbs that convey the concept of something happening "before" or "in the past". Crossword setters leverage this linguistic flexibility, allowing for various answers depending on the required letter count and the specific nuance or context implied by the puzzle's theme or other crossing words.

What is an archaic answer for "previously"?

A common archaic answer for "previously" in crosswords is ERST. This four-letter word is frequently used in puzzles to challenge solvers with less common vocabulary, often paired with older or more obscure clues.

How can I distinguish between "prior" and "before" when solving a crossword?

While both "prior" and "before" mean "previously", their usage can sometimes differ. "Prior" often implies a prerequisite or a preceding event that directly influences what comes next (e.g., "prior experience"). "Before" is more general, simply indicating an earlier point in time or space. In crosswords, the number of letters and intersecting words are usually the key deciders, rather than subtle semantic differences.