There are some crossword clues that, from the moment you first lay eyes on them, promise a delightful mental wrestling match. They’re not just straightforward definitions; they’re little linguistic riddles, designed to make you pause, ponder, and perhaps even groan with a smile when the penny finally drops. Every seasoned solver understands this unique blend of frustration and fascination that only a perfectly crafted crossword clue can evoke.
Today, we’re diving into one such gem: “Makes a good point.” At first glance, it seems so simple, so direct. But as anyone who regularly tackles a challenging crossword grid knows, simplicity in a crossword clue is often a cleverly disguised trap. Is it literal? Is it figurative? Is there a subtle pun lurking beneath the surface, waiting to be unearthed? This particular crossword clue is a prime example of the kind of wordplay that elevates crosswords from mere vocabulary tests into genuine intellectual pursuits.
The beauty of a phrase like “Makes a good point” as a crossword clue lies in its inherent ambiguity. In everyday language, it could refer to someone making a valid argument, perhaps winning a debate with a particularly insightful observation. Or, it could hint at something entirely different, something tangible that literally possesses a good point. This duality is the hallmark of brilliant crossword construction, forcing you to think beyond the obvious, to consider all angles before committing to an answer. It’s this very quality that makes deciphering a complex crossword clue so utterly satisfying.
Often, the journey to solving such a crossword clue involves a mental tour through various categories of wordplay. Do we consider synonyms for “argument” or “persuasion”? Or do we pivot entirely and think about objects known for their sharp ends? Sometimes, a crossword clue will lean heavily on common idioms, while other times it demands a more literal interpretation. Then there are the clues that rely on a cryptic twist, where every word is carefully chosen to misdirect or enlighten, depending on your perspective. “Makes a good point” fits comfortably into that delightful space where multiple interpretations dance before your eyes, each vying for supremacy.
The thrill isn’t just in filling in the squares; it’s in the process of elimination, the sudden flash of insight, the
aha!
moment when the layers of meaning peel away and the intended answer becomes dazzlingly clear. It’s that shared experience among solvers of staring blankly at a deceptively simple crossword clue, only to have the solution click into place with a satisfying mental thud.
Whether you’re a seasoned crossword enthusiast who completes the daily puzzle before breakfast or someone just starting to dip their toes into the wonderful world of word games, the challenge presented by a crossword clue like “Makes a good point” is universally engaging. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of puzzle constructors and the endless possibilities of the English language. So, let’s explore the cleverness embedded within this particular crossword clue and unlock the reasoning behind its brilliant construction.
Available Answers:
SCORES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Saturday’s Daily By David P. Williams / Ed. Patti Varol