Past, present or future Crossword Clue

Hello New York Times Crossword Fans!
Today is 16 April 2024 and we have the correct solution for the crossword clue "Past, present or future" listed below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

The clue "Past, present, or future" corresponds to the answer "TENSE." Here's why this answer aligns with the clue:

• Temporal Reference: The clue "Past, present, or future" hints at different time periods, which directly relates to the concept of tenses in language.
• Linguistic Significance: In grammar, tenses are used to indicate the time of an action or event, whether it is in the past, present, or future. Each tense serves a specific purpose in conveying time-related information in sentences.
• Connection to Clue: The word "tense" encapsulates the essence of time in language, encompassing the varying grammatical structures that enable speakers to situate actions and events in different temporal contexts.

Considering these points, "TENSE" aptly fits the clue "Past, present, or future" as it directly corresponds to the idea of temporal distinctions within the framework of language.

Definition of "TENSE"

(especially of a muscle) stretched tight or rigid

Example :

she tried to relax her tense muscles

he was tense with excitement

they waited in tense silence

 The Crossword clue "Past, present or future" published 15 time/s & has 1 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
New York Times	16 April 2024	TENSE
Universal	11 November 2023	TENSE
Thomas Joseph – King Feature Syndicate	30 August 2023	TENSE
USA Today	4 January 2023	TENSE
L.A. Times Daily	12 August 2019	TENSE
Penny dell sunday	7 July 2019	TENSE