Crossword Genius

The way to suggest a past time (4)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

then

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'suggest a past time' is the definition.
I can't judge whether this definition defines the answer.

'the way' is the wordplay.
'way' becomes 'n' (Compass direction - North).
'the'+'n'='THEN'

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for then that I've seen before include "Subsequently - previously" , "Once upon a time" , "Consequently" , "At that time; next" , "Afterwards - as a result" .)

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