The Elusive “Dish, At Times”: Unpacking a Classic Crossword Clue
Every seasoned solver knows that peculiar thrill – or perhaps, that momentary dread – when a seemingly simple
crossword clue
arrives, yet stubbornly refuses to yield its secret. You read it, re-read it, and still, the answer hovers just beyond your grasp, like a word on the tip of your tongue. Today, we’re diving deep into one such head-scratcher that frequently pops up in daily crosswords: “Dish, at times.”
This particular
crossword clue
is a masterclass in elegant misdirection, a hallmark of what makes solving crosswords such a delightful mental exercise. At first glance, “Dish” might conjure images of culinary delights – a plate, a meal, perhaps even a specific recipe. Add “at times,” and your mind might wander to intermittent eating habits or dishes that are only served on occasion. But if you’re a regular puzzler, you know that the true magic of a great
crossword puzzle
lies in its ability to twist familiar words into unexpected meanings.
“Dish, at times” is a prime example of a
tricky crossword clue
that plays on the multifaceted nature of language. The word “dish” is remarkably versatile, boasting a rich lexicon of definitions. It can be a noun referring to crockery, a course of a meal, or even a satellite antenna. But wait, there’s more! It can also be a verb, as in “to dish out” or “to dish up.” And then there’s the informal, often slang, usage. It’s this latter territory where many of the most satisfying
crossword clues
often reside.
The beauty of this particular
crossword clue
lies in its deceptive simplicity. It’s concise, yet brimming with potential interpretations. The phrase “at times” isn’t merely filler; it’s a crucial modifier, steering your thoughts towards a specific, perhaps less common, but perfectly valid usage of “dish.” It subtly hints that the word isn’t always used in this way, or that its meaning is conditional, perhaps even contextual. This is a classic pattern in
challenging crossword clues
– the small words doing the heavy lifting to point you in the right direction, or delightfully, the wrong one initially.
Unraveling clues like “Dish, at times” isn’t just about knowing vocabulary; it’s about understanding the unique grammar and clever wordplay inherent in
crossword puzzles
. It’s about recognizing the compiler’s intent, the subtle nudge towards a particular definition that might not be the first one that springs to mind. When you finally connect the dots and the answer clicks into place, that “aha!” moment is incredibly rewarding. It’s what keeps us coming back to the grid, day after day, eager for the next verbal challenge. This
crossword clue
reminds us that even the most ordinary words can hide extraordinary secrets, waiting to be unearthed by a keen solver.
Available Answers:
ANTENNA.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 0621-25 NY Times Crossword 21 Jun 25, Saturday