The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 4 letter word LENT
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
L
E
N
T
More clues leading to the result LENT
- Time of self-denial will have an effect finally
- Fast, but not when in France!
- Fast pulse reduced by a third
- Strait of water, not so fast
- Fast learner on specialist ward
- Fast time ends in medal alongside Usain Bolt
- Slow very nearly becomes fast
- Supplied temporarily, in particular Wednesday to Saturday
- Given hand exchanging fine for term in prison
- Slow Tottenham’s No 2 dropped fast
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Made an advance/fast" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case made an advance/fast = lent.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LENT mean?
LENT noun- A period of the ecclesiastical year preceding Easter, traditionally involving temporary abstention from certain foods and pleasures.
- The second term of the academic year at some British schools.
- To allow to be used by someone temporarily, on condition that it or its equivalent will be returned.
- To make a loan.
- To be suitable or applicable, to fit.
- To afford; to grant or furnish in general.
- To borrow.