That familiar flicker of recognition, or perhaps delightful confusion, when a perfectly crafted crossword clue lands squarely on the page. “Strain when about to enter sack (5).” It’s the kind of clue that, at first glance, seems straightforward, yet holds layers of meaning, inviting a deeper dive into its linguistic mechanics. This specific crossword clue, concise at five letters, immediately signals the need for precise thinking, typical of many challenging puzzles.
Breaking down such a crossword clue always begins with its constituent parts. We have “Strain,” a word incredibly rich in connotation. It could imply effort, a physical pull or tension, a type of melody, or even an injury. The beauty, and sometimes the frustration, of a good crossword clue lies in this polysemy. Which meaning applies here? That’s where the rest of the clue comes into play.
Then we have “when about to enter sack.” The phrase “enter sack” is a classic bit of crosswordese, frequently hinting at bedtime or going to sleep. This common usage in crossword clues helps narrow down the context significantly. It’s rarely about a literal sack or dismissal from employment in such a construction. So, we’re likely looking for a five-letter word that relates to the act or state of preparing for sleep, specifically connecting with the concept of “strain.”
The “when about to” part is crucial. It suggests a state that precedes the action itself, a transition rather than the action of entering the sack. It’s the feeling, the sensation, or the condition
just before
one settles down for the night. This temporal qualifier is vital for decoding many cryptic crossword clues. Is it a physical sensation of being tired or worn out, a ‘strain’ on the body from the day’s activities? Or is it a more mental ‘strain,’ like the tension of winding down?
Consider the interplay. Could “Strain” be a literal definition, with “when about to enter sack” providing a cleverly disguised, perhaps figurative, second definition? Many excellent crossword clues operate as double definitions, where both halves independently point to the same answer. Or is it a single word that, through ingenious wordplay, simultaneously embodies both concepts – the “strain” and the “about to enter sack” aspect? The five-letter length provides a strong constraint, guiding the thought process towards words that precisely fit this structure.
This type of crossword clue often tests one’s ability to think laterally, moving beyond the most obvious interpretations. It encourages exploring synonyms for “strain” that might also align with the experience of preparing for bed. Think about the physical and mental state of someone winding down after a long day. Is there a specific state or action, involving a kind of “strain,” that universally applies to those moments right before entering bed?
The elegance of a clue like “Strain when about to enter sack (5)” lies in its ability to evoke a common human experience while demanding a specific linguistic solution. It’s not just about finding a word; it’s about understanding the subtle dance between definition, context, and wordplay inherent in a well-crafted crossword clue. It challenges us to look beyond the surface, to appreciate the craftsmanship of the clue setter, and to unlock the precise word that fits all the subtle requirements presented. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
BREED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 20 August 2025