Crossword Genius

Had become tense (10)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

pluperfect

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

This clue might be a double definition.

'had' is the first definition.
The answer and definition are different parts of speech. However, adjectives and past participle verbs can occasionally define each other.

'tense' is the second definition.
(the pluperfect is a grammatical tense)

'become' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pluperfect that I've seen before include "Tense with "had" and past participle" , "Verbal tense" , "(In grammar) a tense - per cup left (anag)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app