The thrill of a perfectly crafted crossword clue is something unique, isn’t it? That moment when a string of seemingly simple words clicks into place, revealing the hidden answer, is pure satisfaction. But before that “aha!” hits, there’s often a period of delightful struggle, a mental workout that separates the casual glance from the determined solver. Today, we’re diving into the kind of crossword clue that looks straightforward but demands a bit of clever thinking: “Variety of fruit including oranges (6).”
This particular crossword clue is a fantastic example of how precise language in puzzling leads to one exact solution. When you first read “Variety of fruit,” your mind probably casts a wide net. Apples, bananas, berries, stone fruits, tropical fruits – the list is endless. But then comes the crucial qualifier: “including oranges.” This isn’t just a casual suggestion; it’s the cornerstone of the definition. It immediately narrows the field dramatically. We’re not looking for just
any
variety, but one that specifically counts oranges among its members. And, of course, the ever-important “(6)” tells us the precise length of our target word.
So, how do we approach this type of crossword clue? It’s all about categorization and precise definition. We need a broad grouping of fruits, one where oranges fit snugly, and one that rolls off the tongue as a common “variety.” Think about what makes oranges distinct. Their flavour, their origin, their internal structure – all these might point you towards a family of fruits. Many of us might jump to “citrus” almost immediately. It’s a strong contender, no doubt, and certainly includes oranges. But then, you count the letters. Is “citrus” six letters? This is where the detective work intensifies. Every part of the crossword clue matters.
The beauty of a well-designed crossword clue lies in its ability to guide without giving everything away. “Including oranges” isn’t just a random example; it’s the defining characteristic of the “variety” we seek. This isn’t a trick; it’s a test of your vocabulary and your ability to see beyond the most obvious associations. What other fruit families are large enough, distinct enough, and
include
oranges as a prime example? And which of those families comes in at exactly six letters? This is where the magic happens, where your brain starts sifting through possibilities, discarding those that are too long, too short, or don’t quite fit the inclusive nature of the description.
These types of “category plus example” crossword clues are a staple in the puzzling world, and for good reason. They encourage us to think flexibly about classifications and sub-groups. They challenge us to consider the nuances of language and how words are used to define broader concepts. The satisfaction comes not just from knowing the answer, but from the process of elimination and deduction that leads you there. So, next time you encounter a similar crossword clue, remember to break it down. Look at the general category, zero in on the specific examples given, and always, always count those letters. The perfect word is waiting, just a little bit of thoughtful deduction away!
Available Answers:
CITRUS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 19 June 2025