Stretching Your Brain: Deconstructing “Getting Taller (7)”
Welcome, crossword aficionados, to another deep dive into the enigmatic world of cryptic clues! Today, we’re tackling a seemingly straightforward, yet potentially deceptive, seven-letter answer prompted by the words “Getting taller.” This is where the fun begins.
At first glance, “Getting taller” screams growth, expansion, an increase in height. Obvious, right? But crossword clues rarely operate on a purely surface level. The challenge lies in deciphering the
method
behind that increase in height, and how that method translates into a seven-letter word.
Let’s break down some possible avenues of thought:
1. Literal Interpretation (But Probably Not That Simple):
Our brains naturally gravitate towards literal meanings. What are some things that directly cause a person or object to become taller? Think about physical processes. Perhaps the answer relates to a bodily function, a scientific principle, or a practical action. We need to consider what “getting” might signify in this context. Is it an ongoing process or a completed action? Is it active or passive?
2. Figurative Language – The Heart of Cryptic Clues:
Crosswords thrive on wordplay. “Getting taller” might not be a direct description but a metaphor, an idiom, or even a pun. Consider:
Synonyms:
Are there synonyms for “taller” that have seven letters? Think beyond simple height and consider words that convey elevation, advancement, or improvement.
Hidden Meanings:
Could “getting” be part of an instruction to
find
the answer hidden within another word or phrase? This is where anagrams, reversals, and other cryptic techniques come into play.
Associations:
What concepts are commonly associated with growing taller? Consider things like age, achievement, or even specific tools or techniques used to increase height. Think outside the box – the connection might be unexpected!
3. Considering the Grammatical Structure:
The tense and form of the clue (“Getting taller”) are crucial. The “-ing” suggests a continuous action or a gerund. This might point to a verb or a noun formed from a verb. Pay attention to whether the answer needs to be in the past tense, present tense, or infinitive form.
4. Common Crossword Tropes:
Experienced solvers know to look out for recurring themes and tricks:
Abbreviations:
Is there a common abbreviation that could be cleverly incorporated into the answer?
Homophones:
Could the clue be hinting at a word that sounds like something related to “taller”?
Containers:
Is the answer hidden within another word, acting as a container? For example, one word could be “getting”
inside
another word related to height.
Strategies for Unlocking the Solution:
Cross-Referencing:
Do you have any intersecting letters from other clues? Use them! Even a single letter can drastically narrow down the possibilities.
Brainstorming:
Write down every word that comes to mind when you think of “getting taller,” even if they seem silly at first. Sometimes, a random association can spark a breakthrough.
Pattern Recognition:
Look for common letter patterns in seven-letter words. Are there any frequently used prefixes or suffixes that could fit?
Take a Break!
Sometimes, stepping away from the clue for a few minutes (or even hours) can allow your subconscious to work its magic. A fresh perspective can make all the difference.
Solving crossword clues is a process of deduction, creativity, and a bit of luck. Remember to keep an open mind, explore all possibilities, and enjoy the challenge. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
GROWING.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 24 July 2025