There are some days when a
crossword clue
just clicks. The letters appear, the answer slots perfectly into place, and you feel that satisfying surge of completion. Then there are other days, often just moments later, when a seemingly simple
crossword clue
appears, and suddenly, the gears grind to a halt. It’s those deceptively straightforward ones that often pose the greatest challenge in a
crossword puzzle
, don’t you think?
Today, we’re diving into one such tantalizing
crossword clue
: “Important, leading (5)“. At first glance, it feels like a friendly handshake. Two synonyms, five letters – what could be simpler? But if you’ve been tackling
daily crosswords
for any length of time, you know that the most innocuous-looking
crossword clues
are often cloaking a clever twist or demanding a precise synonym that only emerges after a bit of mental gymnastics.
This particular
crossword clue
is a fantastic example of a common type you’ll encounter in any
crossword puzzle
, whether it’s a quick cryptic or a more straightforward definition. The words “important” and “leading” immediately send your brain scrambling through a rolodex of possibilities. Are we talking about something significant in value or status? Or perhaps someone who guides, directs, or holds a top position? The beauty, and sometimes the frustration, of
crossword solving
lies in this very ambiguity.
When you’re faced with a
crossword clue
like “Important, leading (5)“, it’s crucial to consider the various shades of meaning for each word. “Important” can suggest consequence, necessity, or even a sense of grandeur. “Leading” can imply being at the forefront, guiding a group, or simply being superior in some regard. How these two concepts converge into a single five-letter word is the true test of your vocabulary and lateral thinking skills. Many
crossword tips
emphasize looking for these subtle distinctions, often hidden in plain sight within the simple phrasing of a
crossword clue
.
This isn’t a
cryptic crossword clue
with elaborate wordplay and hidden messages; it’s a straight definition, yes, but one that demands a very specific answer from a pool of many plausible ones. Finding the exact five-letter word that encapsulates both “important” and “leading” without feeling forced is the puzzle’s charm. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that makes you question every synonym you thought you knew, pushing you to think beyond the obvious first few words that spring to mind when you begin your
crossword solving
session.
It’s often these precise, concise
crossword clues
that become the lynchpin of an entire section of your
crossword puzzle
, unlocking several intersecting words. Getting it right provides that wonderful cascade effect, while getting it wrong can leave a whole corner stubbornly blank. So, what’s the secret to unraveling “Important, leading (5)“? It requires a bit of thoughtful deliberation, a keen eye for nuance, and perhaps a moment or two away from the grid to let your subconscious do some work.
In today’s post, we’re going to delve deeper into why this specific
crossword clue
is so common, explore the linguistic intricacies of its components, and ultimately, find that perfect five-letter fit that brings “Important” and “Leading” together in a single, satisfying solution. Stick around as we break down this quintessential
crossword challenge
and add another handy solution to your
crossword solving
arsenal. It’s all part of the fun of the
daily crossword
experience!
Available Answers:
MAJOR.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 21 July 2025