There’s a unique thrill that washes over every true word aficionado when a particularly elegant
crossword clue
lands in their lap. It’s that moment where the definition beckons, the wordplay winks, and the number in parentheses promises a perfectly formed answer, just waiting to be unearthed. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one such gem that recently caught my eye: “Delightful, taking the prize (7)”.
This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s a beautifully crafted example of how setters weave together meaning and clever misdirection to create that satisfying ‘aha!’ moment we all chase. At first glance, it appears deceptively straightforward. The word ‘Delightful’ acts as a clear definitional pointer, setting the stage for what kind of word we’re looking for. But then comes the delightful twist – pun intended – with the phrase ‘taking the prize’. This isn’t merely flavour text; it’s the crucial piece of wordplay, hinting at a quality, an action, or a position that aligns perfectly with the initial definition. And of course, the ever-important (7) tells us exactly how many letters we’re looking for to complete this segment of the
crossword puzzle
.
For those of us who regularly tackle
cryptic crossword clues
, this structure is a familiar and cherished friend. The art lies in finding that singular word that flawlessly satisfies both the definition (‘delightful’) and the cryptic wordplay (‘taking the prize’). Your initial approach might involve brainstorming a cascade of synonyms for ‘delightful’. Think about words that evoke joy, pleasure, excellence, or sheer loveliness. Simultaneously, your mind should be pondering words or concepts that signify winning, achieving the top spot, being superior, or indeed, physically taking a prize. The magic happens when you discover a seven-letter word that fits both criteria simultaneously, a truly delightful synergy that only a well-crafted
crossword clue
can provide.
This specific
crossword clue
encourages a broad exploration of your vocabulary and a keen eye for nuance. Are we looking for something that
is
a prize? Or something that
wins
a prize? Or perhaps something that is
like
a prize in its exceptional quality or desirability? The subtle shades of meaning are what make these challenges so incredibly engaging. It’s this intricate dance between direct meaning and suggestive phrasing that elevates a good
crossword clue
to a truly great one. And when that seven-letter word finally clicks into place, revealing itself as the perfect fit for both parts, the satisfaction of solving crosswords is immense.
A well-constructed
crossword clue
like “Delightful, taking the prize (7)” isn’t just about finding the right word; it’s about appreciating the setter’s cleverness and precision. It’s a rewarding mental workout that sharpens your lateral thinking skills, expands your lexical horizons, and provides a wonderful escape from the everyday. Whether you’re a seasoned solver with years of experience or just looking for some
crossword help
to get started on your journey, dissecting clues like this one is an excellent way to hone your abilities and deepen your appreciation for the craft.
So, take a moment with this one. Let the ideas percolate. Consider all the angles that this elegant
crossword clue
presents. What seven-letter word embodies both ‘delightful’ and the concept of ‘taking the prize’ with such effortless grace? It’s a classic example of a
daily crossword clue
that offers both a stimulating challenge and an immense sense of accomplishment when cracked. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
WINNING.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 11 July 2025