The phrase refers to a crossword clue the place the reply consists of two phrases which means “upfront” or “earlier.” A typical answer for such clues is “IN ADVANCE.” Such a clue depends on synonyms and the solver’s understanding of vocabulary and phrasing associated to preemptive motion or preparation.
Brief, concise clues like this are ceaselessly utilized in crossword puzzles to check vocabulary and encourage versatile pondering. They demand precision and infrequently require solvers to think about a number of prospects earlier than arriving on the appropriate reply. The flexibility to decipher these clues contributes to the general problem and pleasure of crossword puzzles, enriching vocabulary and cognitive expertise. Traditionally, cryptic crosswords, recognized for his or her extra advanced clue buildings, additionally make the most of concise phrasing, including a layer of wordplay to the puzzle-solving expertise.
