The Frustration of the Twist: Deciphering a Tricky Crossword Clue
Sometimes, a crossword clue feels like a smooth, paved road, leading you directly to the answer. Other times, it’s a winding, bumpy path through dense intellectual foliage. Then there are the clues that are just plain
oblique
. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one of those head-scratchers: a six-letter word hinted at by “Misaligns indication (6)“.
This clue is a masterclass in misdirection, a common tactic employed by crossword constructors to keep us on our toes. The word “Misaligns” immediately suggests something is out of sync, perhaps skewed, or deviating from its proper position. It evokes a sense of error, a lack of precision. Our brains are immediately primed to think of synonyms like “warps,” “tilts,” or “skews.” But hold on, there’s more than meets the eye here.
The addition of “indication” is the crucial pivot point. It pulls us away from the literal act of physical misalignment and pushes us towards a more figurative interpretation. We’re no longer necessarily dealing with concrete objects; we might be dealing with symbols, signs, or perhaps even abstract concepts. Think about what an “indication” is. It’s a signal, a clue, a piece of evidence pointing towards something else. It’s a marker that, when misaligned, leads us astray.
The dreaded length constraint, “(6)”, further narrows our focus, forcing us to consider only those words that perfectly fit the designated number of letters. This is often the most helpful piece of information, but sometimes it can also be the most frustrating, especially when you have a plethora of near-misses swirling around in your mind.
When faced with a clue like “Misaligns indication (6)“, it’s vital to adopt a systematic approach. Firstly, break down the individual words. Consider all possible interpretations of “Misaligns”. Think beyond the literal. Is it a verb describing an action, or a noun referring to the result of that action? Does it imply a deliberate act, or an accidental occurrence?
Next, dissect “indication.” Is it a hint? A symptom? A gauge? A signpost? How might an indication be deliberately, or accidentally, thrown off course? What words share that nuanced meaning?
Now comes the real work: the brainstorming phase. Jot down any and all six-letter words that spring to mind, even if they seem far-fetched at first. Don’t dismiss anything out of hand. Try to connect these words back to the core concepts of misalignment and indication. Can you envision a scenario where your chosen word perfectly encapsulates both aspects of the clue?
Think about common crossword themes and vocabulary. Are there any frequently used words that fit the bill? Are there any homophones or near-homophones that might be playing a role? The best crossword constructors are masters of wordplay, employing double meanings and subtle linguistic trickery to throw solvers off track.
Finally, if you’re still stumped, look at the intersecting letters from other solved clues. These can provide valuable clues, helping you to eliminate possibilities and narrow your search. A single correctly placed letter can be enough to unlock the entire puzzle.
Ultimately, solving a tricky clue like this is a rewarding experience. It’s a mental workout that sharpens your vocabulary, enhances your problem-solving skills, and provides a satisfying sense of accomplishment. So, take a deep breath, sharpen your pencils, and prepare to wrestle with the enigma of “Misaligns indication (6)“. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
SIGNAL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 26 July 2025