Cracking Today’s Medical Mystery: “They bore doctor with complaints (6)“
Another day, another brilliant brain-teaser landed on my desk, demanding a bit of linguistic gymnastics. Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing
crossword clue
that perfectly exemplifies why we love these puzzles: “They bore doctor with complaints (6)“. It’s a six-letter marvel that offers layers of interpretation, making it a classic example of a clever
cryptic crossword clue
.
At first glance, this
crossword clue
might seem straightforward, but as seasoned solvers know, appearances can be deceiving. The key to unlocking its secret lies in carefully dissecting each word and considering its potential dual meanings. Let’s start with “bore.” This little word carries significant weight here. In one sense, “bore” means to create a hole, often with a drilling tool. Could this
crossword puzzle clue
be hinting at a medical instrument? Something a doctor might use to “bore” into something? Perhaps an old surgical tool? It’s a possibility that initially draws one down a path of medical implements.
However, “bore” also has another, more human, meaning: to cause someone to feel weary, uninterested, or annoyed through tedious repetition or dullness. Think of someone droning on and on – they “bore” you. When applied to our
crossword clue
, this immediately shifts the context towards the emotional state of the “doctor.” Does the answer refer to something that makes a medical professional sigh with exasperation? This duality of “bore” is a hallmark of a well-crafted
crossword clue
, forcing you to consider multiple angles simultaneously.
Next, we have “doctor.” In many
crossword clues
, “doctor” can serve as an indicator for an anagram, suggesting that the letters of a word need to be “doctored” or rearranged. But here, “doctor” seems to be part of the direct action or subject. Is it a specific medical role? Or a general term for a physician? Given the context of “complaints,” a general physician seems more likely, as they are the frontline recipients of various grievances. The role of the “doctor” is crucial – they are the one being “bored” or potentially using a “bore.”
And then, the critical element: “with complaints.” This part of the
crossword clue
is equally rich with possibilities. “Complaints” can refer to medical ailments – the symptoms and issues a patient presents to a doctor. If someone comes “with complaints,” they’re usually detailing what’s wrong with them. But “complaints” can also mean general grievances, gripes, or expressions of dissatisfaction, not necessarily medical in nature. If the answer is something that “bores” a doctor, are these medical complaints or merely frustrating general complaints? This ambiguity is exactly what makes solving this
crossword clue
so satisfying. The entire phrase “bore doctor with complaints” paints a vivid picture, whether it’s of a tedious consultation or a more literal action.
Finally, the “(6)” is our non-negotiable length constraint. Whatever brilliant solution we arrive at for this intriguing
crossword clue
, it must fit precisely into six letters. This numeric hint is often the final piece of the puzzle, allowing us to confirm our suspicions or rule out otherwise plausible answers. It’s the ultimate arbiter, ensuring our wordplay fits the grid perfectly.
As you ponder this challenging
crossword puzzle clue
, remember to consider the interplay between the meanings of “bore” and “complaints.” Is the answer something that
does
the boring, or
is
the boring thing itself? Is it a thing, a group of people, or a concept? This particular
crossword clue
truly tests your ability to think outside the box, blending everyday language with a touch of wordplay wizardry. It’s a fantastic example of a
crossword clue
that looks deceptively simple but hides a delightful twist. Take your time, think about who or what might bore a doctor
with
complaints, and you might just find that eureka moment.
I won’t reveal the answer here – that would spoil the fun of unraveling this clever
crossword clue
for yourself! Keep those brain cells buzzing and enjoy the satisfaction of cracking it.
Available Answers:
DRILLS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 10 August 2025