Some crossword clues hit you like a flash of lightning, the answer leaping onto the page almost before you’ve finished reading. Others demand a bit more detective work, a deep dive into the setter’s mind. And then there are the brilliant ones, like “Cop shop! (6,7)“, that perfectly balance a straightforward definition with a delightful twist of colloquialism, making them a true joy to unravel. This particular crossword clue is a prime example of how setters expertly guide (or misguide!) us towards their intended solution.
At first glance, this crossword clue seems simple enough. “Cop shop” immediately points us towards a place where law enforcement operates. But the exclamation mark, that little punctuation flourish, is often a crucial hint in the world of crosswords. It signals informality, a colloquialism, or perhaps even a playful reinterpretation of the words. It tells us we’re not looking for something overly formal or technical, but rather a phrase commonly understood in everyday speech. This is where the fun begins for any seasoned crossword clue solver.
Then, of course, there are the numbers in parentheses: (6,7). These are your best friends when tackling any crossword clue, acting as precise navigational coordinates. They tell you not only that the answer is a two-word phrase, but also the exact length of each word. This instantly eliminates a myriad of possibilities that might spring to mind initially, like “police station” or “headquarters,” simply because they don’t fit the specified lengths. The constrained nature of this kind of crossword clue forces you to think laterally, digging deeper into your lexicon for just the right fit.
When faced with a challenging crossword clue like “Cop shop! (6,7)“, one strategy is to brainstorm all possible informal synonyms for “cop” and “shop” in this context. Think about the various informal terms for a police officer, and then for a place of business or an operational base. Combine them mentally, always keeping those (6,7) word lengths firmly in mind. It’s a process of elimination and creative association. Does “fuzz joint” fit? No. What about something more traditional but still informal? The setter wants you to think beyond the obvious, to tap into a shared understanding of everyday language.
Another common trick setters employ with a crossword clue like this is to lean on a phrase so ingrained in common parlance that it almost feels like a single word. The two parts, while distinct, flow together naturally. This requires you to step back from a literal interpretation and consider the idiomatic usage. The “shop” isn’t a retail outlet; it’s a place, an establishment, a building. The “cop” isn’t just an individual; it represents the institution. Unpacking this duality is key to cracking many a great crossword clue.
Ultimately, the satisfaction of solving a well-crafted crossword clue like “Cop shop! (6,7)” comes from the “aha!” moment. It’s that sudden click when all the elements — the colloquialism, the word lengths, the underlying meaning — align perfectly, and the solution reveals itself, seemingly obvious in hindsight. It’s a testament to the setter’s skill and your own growing expertise in navigating the delightful linguistic labyrinth of crosswords. Every challenging crossword clue mastered builds your confidence for the next grid. Keep those dictionaries handy, and happy solving!
Available Answers:
POLICESTATION.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 21 July 2025