Decoding the Cryptic: “Scored rather quickly? Everyone, say, run out (7)“
Welcome, word nerds, to another delve into the intricate world of crossword clues! Today, we’re tackling a particularly juicy seven-letter puzzle: “Scored rather quickly? Everyone, say, run out.”
Crossword clues, as we all know, are rarely straightforward. They’re often packed with misdirection, double meanings, and a healthy dose of wordplay, all designed to test our linguistic prowess and lateral thinking. This clue is no exception.
Let’s break down the components and see what we can unravel. The phrase “Scored rather quickly?” immediately suggests something related to speed and achievement. It evokes images of fast-paced games, perhaps a sudden victory in a competition. The “rather quickly” adds a degree of urgency and hints at a concise action. We need to think beyond just accumulating points in a literal sense. Could “scored” refer to something else entirely?
Next, we have “Everyone, say.” This phrase is a classic indicator of a homophone, a word that sounds like another word. “Say” is a common instruction in cryptic clues, prompting us to consider the pronunciation of something. It suggests we need to look for a word that sounds like “everyone.”
Finally, we have “run out.” This phrase introduces an element of depletion or exhaustion. It might be hinting at a situation where something is used up, depleted, or perhaps a strategy that’s come to an end. “Run out” could also imply a physical action, such as exiting a location.
Putting it all together, we need to find a seven-letter word that somehow relates to:
A swift achievement or outcome.
A soundalike for “everyone.”
The idea of something being depleted or coming to an end.
The challenge lies in finding the connections between these seemingly disparate elements. The key, as always, is to remain flexible in our thinking and consider multiple interpretations.
Possible Avenues of Exploration:
Synonyms:
Brainstorm synonyms for “scored quickly,” “everyone,” and “run out.” Are there any overlaps or words that connect these concepts?
Wordplay:
Are there any common phrases or idioms that incorporate these words or their meanings?
Anagrams:
While less likely in this particular clue, it’s always worth considering if any of the words can be rearranged to form a relevant anagram.
Homophones:
Focus on finding a word that sounds like “everyone” and see if it creates a meaningful connection with the other parts of the clue.
Context:
Remember to consider the overall theme of the crossword if you have any crossing letters. This can sometimes provide valuable hints.
The world of crossword clues is a playground for the mind. It demands creativity, precision, and a healthy dose of persistence. Approach this clue with an open mind, explore the various possibilities, and you might just unlock the solution. Good luck, and happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
ALLEGRO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 1 September 2025