shortly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "shortly crossword clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "shortly crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ERE: Meaning 'before long' or 'soon,' often used in poetry or older texts.
4 Letters
SOON: Indicates a short time from now; in the near future.
ANON: An archaic term meaning 'soon' or 'shortly,' often found in classic literature.
7 Letters
BRIEFLY: For a short duration or concisely.
QUICKLY: At a rapid speed; without delay.
SHORTLY: In a short time; soon. Can also imply concisely or abruptly.
More About "shortly crossword clue"
The clue "shortly" is a classic example of a temporal or manner-related crossword clue. It requires solvers to think about words that mean "in a short time" or "in a brief manner." While direct synonyms like SOON are common, experienced crossword constructors often use less obvious or archaic terms such as ANON or ERE to increase the challenge.
Understanding the nuances of such clues is key to mastering crosswords. "Shortly" can refer to a period of time, a brief duration, or even a concise way of speaking or acting. Always consider both interpretations when an initial answer doesn't fit the letter count or intersecting letters.
Our goal at Answercrossword.com is to provide not just the answers, but also the context and explanations behind them, helping you improve your crossword-solving skills with every query.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters: Always double-check the number of letters an answer requires. This is often the quickest way to narrow down possibilities, especially for clues like "shortly" that have multiple synonyms.
- Consider Archaic Synonyms: Many crossword puzzles, particularly in traditional publications, include older or less common words. For clues like "shortly," be prepared for answers such as ERE or ANON.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from solved intersecting clues are your best friends. They provide critical constraints that help confirm or rule out potential answers for "shortly."
- Think Beyond Time: While "shortly" primarily implies time, also consider meanings related to conciseness or brevity in manner, as crosswords love wordplay.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "shortly" mean in a crossword clue?
In crossword puzzles, "shortly" typically refers to something happening in a brief period of time, or in a concise and brief manner. It often points to synonyms like 'soon,' 'briefly,' or 'anon'.
Why are there multiple answers for "shortly crossword clue"?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because English has many synonyms and words with similar meanings. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the intersecting letters from other clues in the puzzle.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for "shortly"?
To distinguish between similar answers, always check the exact number of letters needed and how the letters intersect with other solved words in your puzzle. Sometimes, the clue's context or the puzzle's theme might hint at a more specific or archaic synonym.