Ticking Away: Deconstructing “Went Quickly, of Time (4)” in Today’s Crossword
Another day, another grid to conquer! Today, we’re diving into a deceptively simple-sounding clue: “Went quickly, of time (4).” At first glance, it seems almost too straightforward. Time, after all, is notorious for slipping through our fingers. But the beauty of crosswords, as we all know, lies in the nuances. The brevity of this clue, paired with the specific length requirement of four letters, forces us to consider a more precise, perhaps even figurative, interpretation of how time ‘goes quickly.’
The key here is recognizing the subtle implications embedded within the phrase “went quickly.” Are we looking for a synonym for “passed”? A word that implies swift movement? Or something more abstract, related to the feeling of time accelerating? The possibilities, while constrained by the four-letter limit, are still plentiful.
Let’s begin by considering the literal. What words immediately spring to mind when you think of something moving rapidly? Perhaps words associated with speed, motion, or even vanishing acts. Could the answer relate to a specific unit of time itself, compressed or shortened in some way? Don’t dismiss the obvious – sometimes, the simplest answer is the correct one.
However, crossword setters often enjoy employing misdirection. It’s entirely possible that “went quickly” is a red herring, guiding us away from the actual meaning. We must then explore the figurative possibilities. How else can we describe time ‘going quickly’? Is there a word that captures the essence of time elapsing, of moments fading into the past? Consider emotional states associated with time. When are we most likely to perceive time as ‘going quickly’? Perhaps during periods of joy, excitement, or even intense concentration. Could the answer be related to a feeling or experience?
Another avenue to explore is the use of slang or colloquialisms. Sometimes, a crossword clue will leverage a more informal or regional expression for “went quickly.” While less common, these solutions can often be incredibly satisfying to uncover, providing a unique ‘aha!’ moment.
Remember also to consider the context of the surrounding clues. The intersecting letters from adjacent solved words can provide invaluable hints, narrowing down the possibilities and revealing potential letter combinations. Look for patterns, repetitions, or themes within the overall puzzle that might offer subtle clues.
Don’t underestimate the power of etymology. Tracing the origins and evolution of words associated with time and speed can sometimes unlock unexpected connections and lead to the solution. A word’s original meaning, or even its archaic usage, might provide the missing link.
Finally, take a break! Sometimes, stepping away from the puzzle for a few minutes allows your subconscious to work on the problem, leading to a sudden breakthrough. A fresh perspective can be all it takes to see the clue in a new light.
This seemingly simple clue, “Went quickly, of time (4),” is a testament to the cleverness and complexity that can be packed into a few short words. Approach it with a combination of logical reasoning, creative thinking, and a little bit of patience, and you’ll be well on your way to cracking the code and filling in that crucial square! Happy solving!
Available Answers:
FLEW.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Saturday, 22 November 2025