There’s a certain thrill that comes with encountering a truly brilliant cryptic crossword clue, isn’t there? That moment when you first read it, perhaps a flicker of recognition, then a deeper dive into the layers of meaning, and finally, the delightful
aha!
as it all slots into place. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on one such gem that certainly gave me pause (in the best possible way, of course!): “Proceed to watch, it’s said, what sailors do (2,2,3)“. This isn’t just another daily crossword clue; it’s a masterclass in the art of cryptic construction, a perfect blend of a clear definition and wonderfully deceptive wordplay that truly epitomizes the joy of a challenging crossword.
At first glance, this particular crossword clue presents a familiar nautical theme, which can often be a helpful starting point in a cryptic. Sailors, ships, the sea – these are all fertile ground for wordplay in crossword puzzles. But as any seasoned solver knows, themes can also be a red herring, designed to lead you astray if you’re not careful. The real magic of this clue lies in its specific phrasing and those tantalizing little indicators that point towards the solver’s path without giving away the game entirely.
Let’s unpack some of the elements that make this crossword clue so compelling. The phrase “it’s said” is a classic indicator in the world of cryptic crosswords. It’s a signpost, a little nudge from the setter hinting that you should be thinking about sounds, about homophones. This instantly tells us that at least part of the solution will sound like something else, a common and often incredibly satisfying trick in a well-crafted cryptic crossword clue. The trick is figuring out
which
part of the clue is meant to be interpreted phonetically. Is it the ‘watch’? Is it the ‘proceed’? Or is it something else entirely? This ambiguity is precisely what makes the puzzle so engaging.
Then there’s the definition itself: “what sailors do.” This seems straightforward enough, providing a solid anchor for the solution. Sailors engage in many activities, of course, but the combination of this definition with the other components of the crossword clue narrows down the possibilities considerably. It forces you to think about specific nautical actions or practices, especially those that might resonate with the phonetic element. The art of solving such a clue is balancing the literal meaning with the playful wordplay. You need to identify the core meaning while simultaneously allowing your mind to wander into the more abstract, sound-alike realm.
The enumeration (2,2,3) is also a crucial piece of the puzzle. It tells us that the answer is a multi-word phrase, broken into three distinct parts with a total of seven letters. This structure is invaluable, as it helps eliminate single-word solutions and guides you towards phrases that fit the pattern. Many times, the enumeration of a complex cryptic crossword clue can be the key to unlocking it, providing a framework within which to test potential answers. It encourages you to think in terms of common two-letter prepositions or articles, followed by another short word, and then a slightly longer one.
What makes this particular crossword clue so satisfying is how neatly all these elements interlock once you see the solution. It’s not just a clever pun or a straightforward definition; it’s a seamless integration of both, where the homophonic element perfectly aligns with the nautical definition, all while fitting that precise enumeration. It’s the kind of clue that makes you appreciate the setter’s wit and the elegance of the English language. It’s a testament to why we dedicate so much time to unraveling these intricate linguistic puzzles, day after day, seeking out the next brilliant crossword clue.
So, if you’ve been scratching your head over “Proceed to watch, it’s said, what sailors do (2,2,3)“, know that you’re in good company. It’s a superb example of a cryptic crossword clue that rewards careful thought and an ear for wordplay. And isn’t that what makes solving crosswords so utterly addictive? The pursuit of that perfect, elusive answer, the unraveling of a finely woven linguistic knot. Keep at it, keep thinking laterally, and the solution to this delightful crossword clue will surely reveal itself!
Available Answers:
GOTOSEA.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 18 July 2025