Welcome back, cryptic crossword enthusiasts! There’s nothing quite like the mental gymnastics a truly devious crossword clue demands, and today, we’re diving headfirst into one that had me pondering over my morning brew. It’s a beautifully crafted seven-letter challenge that perfectly encapsulates the blend of definition and wordplay we all adore.
The crossword clue in question? “Deliver up top troops without grief (7)“. At first glance, it might seem straightforward, but as with all the best cryptic crossword clues, the genius lies in the subtle misdirections and clever layering. This isn’t just about finding a synonym; it’s about dissecting a miniature poem of logic.
Let’s unpack this intriguing crossword clue, piece by tantalizing piece.
First, we have “Deliver up”. This phrase immediately screams “definition” to many seasoned solvers. “Deliver up” can mean to hand over, to present, to surrender, or to yield. It’s a common phrasal verb, and its presence as a potential definitional element is a solid starting point for any crossword clue. Keep in mind its nuances: is it a formal presentation, a reluctant giving up, or something else entirely? The surrounding words will guide us.
Next, we encounter “top troops”. This is where the true cryptic fun begins. What could “top troops” possibly indicate in a wordplay sense? Could “top” be an anagram indicator, suggesting we rearrange the letters of “troops”? If so, “troops” has six letters, and our answer is seven, leaving one letter to find from the rest of the clue. Or perhaps “top” refers to the first letter of “troops”, giving us a “T”? This is a classic cryptic technique, where a word like ‘head’, ‘first’, ‘leader’, or ‘top’ points to an initial letter. Alternatively, “top troops” could refer to a specific type of military unit, an elite force, or even be a part of the final word itself, embedded within. The ambiguity here is a hallmark of a well-constructed crossword clue. It forces us to consider multiple angles simultaneously.
Then comes “without grief”. This adverbial phrase is a crucial modifier. In cryptic crossword clues, phrases like “without grief,” “easily,” “freely,” or “readily” often point to a certain manner or state of being. If something is done “without grief,” it implies a lack of reluctance, a willingness, or even an absence of resistance or sorrow. It’s not forced; it’s done smoothly, unburdened. This helps us refine the potential definition provided by “Deliver up.” Are we delivering up something reluctantly or willingly? “Without grief” clearly points to the latter. This precision in adverbial phrasing is a beautiful aspect of solving any complex crossword clue.
Finally, we have the ubiquitous “(7)”, indicating that our elusive solution is a seven-letter word. This length constraint is vital, helping us eliminate words that don’t fit and focus our search once we have some viable candidates.
The challenge of this crossword clue, and indeed many excellent ones, lies in how “Deliver up,” “top troops,” and “without grief” intertwine. Is “Deliver up” the precise definition, with “top troops without grief” being the intricate wordplay? Or is “Deliver up” part of the wordplay, with the definition hidden elsewhere? The elegance of this particular crossword clue is how seamlessly it merges these elements, requiring you to consider both the literal and the lateral.
Solving a crossword clue like this demands a flexible mind. You might try identifying potential definitions first, then see how the remaining words can form that word cryptically. Or, conversely, you might spot a potential cryptic device in “top troops” or “without grief” and then see what definition it points to. It’s a delightful dance between deduction and intuition.
Take your time with this crossword clue. Ponder its layers, consider the double meanings, and enjoy the journey of unravelling its clever construction. It’s a testament to why we love these linguistic puzzles so much!
Available Answers:
SADNESS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Thursday, 7 August 2025