There’s a unique kind of satisfaction that comes from deciphering a particularly clever crossword clue. It’s a moment of intellectual triumph, where linguistic agility meets logical deduction. Some clues are straightforward, others lean heavily on puns, but then there are those that combine a common phrase with a specific grammatical hint, challenging you to think just a little differently. Today, we’re diving into one such brilliant example that often appears in the daily crossword: “Likely will, with ‘is'”.
This specific crossword clue is a masterclass in how constructors guide solvers through clever misdirection and subtle signals. At first glance, “Likely will” points you towards words or phrases associated with probability, expectation, or future events. Your mind might immediately jump to synonyms for ‘probable,’ ‘expected,’ or ‘imminent.’ This is the core meaning, the conceptual heart of the crossword clue. It sets the stage, narrowing down the vast ocean of English vocabulary to a more manageable pool. What actions or states of being are described as ‘likely to happen’? What words convey a strong sense of future possibility or near certainty? This first half of the crossword clue demands a focus on the meaning of expectation.
However, the real genius of this particular crossword clue lies in its second part: “with ‘is'”. This small, seemingly innocuous addition changes everything. It’s a direct pointer, a flashing arrow indicating a very specific grammatical structure. For seasoned crossword puzzle solvers, phrases like “with ‘is’,” “with ‘d’,” “with ‘ve,” or “for short” are invaluable signposts. They instantly tell you that the answer isn’t a simple, standalone word but rather a contraction. Suddenly, the pool of ‘likely will’ synonyms shrinks dramatically, filtered through the lens of words that can contract with ‘is’.
Consider the interplay: you’re not just looking for a word meaning ‘likely will,’ but a word that
contracts with ‘is’
to mean ‘likely will’. This double-layered constraint is precisely what makes such a crossword clue both challenging and immensely satisfying to solve. It forces you to move beyond simple dictionary definitions and engage with the mechanics of the English language. It’s a brilliant example of wordplay that hinges on understanding both semantics and syntax.
To crack a crossword clue of this nature, a solver’s strategy often involves a few key steps. First, acknowledge the core meaning of “Likely will.” Brainstorm terms that fit this description. Then, and crucially, apply the “with ‘is'” filter. Which of those terms, when combined with ‘is’ into a contraction, would form a coherent answer? The surrounding letters in the crossword puzzle grid also play an enormous role here. Sometimes, you might have a few possible candidates that fit the initial interpretation, but the existing letters from intersecting crossword clues will swiftly confirm the correct choice. This collaborative nature of the crossword puzzle grid is what makes it such a compelling mental workout.
The beauty of such a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to feel elusive until the precise moment of realization. It’s a testament to the constructor’s skill in leading you down a path that, once fully understood, seems perfectly logical and even obvious. It’s these kinds of elegant, multi-faceted crossword clues that keep us coming back to our daily crossword puzzles, eager for the next linguistic challenge and the sweet reward of that “aha!” moment. It’s a reminder that solving crosswords isn’t just about knowing words; it’s about understanding how words work together, how they bend and twist, and how they can cleverly hide in plain sight. Keep an eye out for these structural hints; they’re often the key to unlocking the grid.
Available Answers:
APTTO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Michael Torch & Andrea Carla Michaels / Ed. Patti Varol