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May 3, 2010 · 1. Read the clue. Then read it backwards. Either the first word or the last word (or phrase, or even the whole clue) defines the solution. Work out what the solution means. For example: Former...
- The Cryptic Crossword
- Ximenean Principles
- Cracking Your Clues
- And Some More
The cryptic crossword that you find in the UK is a very different sort of beast. In fact, rather than a crossword, it could be called a linguistic workout for the mind. One of the reasons they work so well and are so much fun is to do is because of the nature of the English language. Given its many influences from around the globe, we all speak a u...
The first thing to understand is that all cryptic clues tend to be made up of what are called the Ximenean principles – which say that all cryptic clues can be divided into three basic parts: 1. An exact definition, in much the same way as a conventional or ‘quick’ crossword clue 2. Some sort of wordplay – this is known as the ‘fair subsidiary indi...
Here are some of the devices setters use most commonly to take you towards solving cryptic clues. If you will, consider it a basic little toolkit, and remember that a lot of the fun comes from wondering which tool to use next!
Another thing to bear in mind is that, nearly always, you can find the definition either at the start or end of a clue. So, for instance, ‘Place roughly under top of tree trunk’ would be torso. However, the double definition rule explained above can be the one time when you will find an exception. Another rule is to ignore all punctuation – cryptic...
Nov 15, 2023 · To solve a cryptic crossword, try to identify what type of clue you’re dealing with. For example, if you have a clue with a word indicating change, like “transfer,” “lost,” “moved,” or “cook,” it may be an anagram, in which case you need to rearrange the letters.
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- Anagram Clues. In an anagram clue, the subsidiary indication contains the letters of the answer and an indication that the letters should be rearranged or are not presently in the right order.
- Charade Clues. In charade clues, two or more words run together to form the solution. To tantalise the left is a plant (6) Another way of saying ‘to tantalise’ is ‘TEASE’ and a common abbreviation for ‘left’ is ‘L’.
- Container Clues. In these clues a single letter or the letters of one word are inserted into another. Widest and best way inside (8) The answer is BROADEST. ‘
- Double Definition Clues. Here the subsidiary indication is replaced by a second definition. Often these clues are short, perhaps two or three words. An example
Sep 20, 2022 · Confused about cryptics? Here are some useful pointers to the different techniques used by setters, types of clues and how to solve them
- Roger Blitz
Feb 23, 2024 · Cryptic crosswords feature a great variety of words used to indicate an anagram, such as: about, confused, new, mad, off, perhaps, shaken, upset, wrong – almost anything that can suggest change or difference. Charade. Like the game of charades, these clues involve stringing together several smaller elements to make the complete answer.
Mar 1, 2024 · Puzzles & Games Dept. A Starter Pack for the Cryptic-Crossword Curious. Learn how to solve our wiliest word puzzle with this beginner-friendly collection. By Andy Kravis. March 1, 2024.
