There’s a unique thrill that washes over every dedicated solver when a particularly elusive crossword clue finally yields its secrets. It’s that gratifying “aha!” moment that keeps us coming back, day after day, to the grid. Whether you’re a seasoned pro tackling cryptic crosswords or someone just getting into the delightful world of daily word puzzles, you know the feeling. Today, we’re diving into a fascinating little brain teaser that might have given some of you pause: “Stickler for tradition (6).”
This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a perfect example of a clue that demands a blend of precise definition, a good grasp of synonyms, and a bit of imaginative thinking. When you encounter a phrase like “Stickler for tradition,” your mind immediately conjures an image, a type of personality. Someone who values the old ways, perhaps resistant to change, deeply rooted in established customs. They might be seen as old-fashioned, perhaps even unyielding in their adherence to past practices. The beauty of solving crosswords lies in translating that vivid image into a precise word, and that’s exactly what this particular crossword clue asks us to do.
Many of us approach a definition-style crossword clue by brainstorming synonyms. What words come to mind when you think of someone who is a “stickler for tradition”? You might think of ‘conservative,’ ‘orthodox,’ or ‘traditionalist.’ These are all excellent starting points, but then you hit the crucial numerical hint: (6). This little number is your best friend, acting as a crucial filter. It instantly narrows down your possibilities, discarding words that are too long or too short, and pushing you to dig a little deeper into your vocabulary reserves. This constraint is what makes solving crosswords such a rich linguistic challenge. It transforms what could be a broad search into a focused hunt for the perfect six-letter fit.
Thinking about the character described by “Stickler for tradition,” what are their core traits? They might be described as someone who insists on following established rules, perhaps to the letter. Their adherence to convention is paramount. They value heritage, history, and the way things ‘have always been done.’ Consider the various facets of such a personality. Are they rigid? Are they firm? Do they stand by old customs? Each of these questions helps to illuminate the precise nuance required for the correct crossword answer. The brilliance of a well-crafted crossword clue is its ability to evoke such a detailed mental picture while still pointing to a single, specific word.
When you’re stuck on a crossword clue like this, don’t just stare at it blankly. Engage with the phrase. Break it down. What does “stickler” imply? A person who is particular, meticulous, perhaps even pedantic about something. And “for tradition”? That’s the specific domain of their meticulousness. Combine those two ideas, and then search your mental lexicon for a six-letter word that perfectly encapsulates both the
strict adherence
and the
object of that adherence
. This systematic approach is often the key to unlocking even the trickiest word puzzles. It’s about more than just vocabulary; it’s about understanding the subtle interplay of meanings.
We often encounter these kinds of descriptive clues in various crossword puzzles, from your daily cryptic to the more straightforward quick crosswords. They are designed to test not just your vocabulary, but your ability to connect abstract concepts to concrete words. The journey from “Stickler for tradition” to its six-letter solution is a mini-adventure in itself, a testament to the power of precise wordplay. Keep that (6) firmly in mind, and think about words that perfectly balance the idea of being steadfast and devoted to the ways of the past. The answer is often right there, hiding in plain sight, waiting for your mental gears to click into place, providing that sweet satisfaction every crossword solver cherishes. This specific crossword clue is a fantastic example of the nuanced thinking required to master the art of the grid.
Available Answers:
PURIST.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Sunday, 31 August 2025