Some crossword clues hit differently. They arrive, innocent enough in their grid square, yet carry an almost impossible weight of meaning, demanding not just a dictionary but a keen sense of lateral thinking. Such was the case with today’s featured head-scratcher, a truly captivating entry that has left many a crossword enthusiast pondering its depths.
The particular puzzle that sparked this post centered around the enigmatic phrase: ‘Go with poor wretches to increase pressure (4,3,5).’ This isn’t your average ‘river in Egypt’ kind of crossword clue. Oh no. This is the sort that makes you stare blankly, cycle through synonyms for ‘wretches’ and ‘pressure,’ and perhaps even question the very fabric of language. It weaves together a vivid, almost narrative scene, only to twist it into a wordplay challenge. The cryptic crossword clue structure, with its numerical hint (4,3,5), gives us a roadmap, but the journey itself feels like traversing a labyrinth without a minotaur in sight – just clever wordplay acting as the beast.
Every true crossword enthusiast knows the feeling: that moment when a seemingly impenetrable crossword clue finally clicks. It’s a symphony of a-ha! moments, often brought on by a subtle pun, an unexpected double meaning, or a devious anagram. This particular crossword clue is a masterclass in such misdirection. It’s designed to send your mind down several plausible, yet ultimately incorrect, paths, before revealing its elegant solution. The art of the crossword clue lies in its ability to conceal the obvious in plain sight, making the solver feel both frustrated and utterly brilliant once the penny drops.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue like this one is how it taps into different aspects of language: vocabulary, syntax, and sometimes even a touch of general knowledge, all wrapped up in a package of ingenious wordplay. It elevates the simple act of filling in a grid to a genuinely intellectual pursuit. If you’ve been grappling with this particular challenge, or if you simply appreciate the artistry behind a truly great cryptic crossword clue, settle in. We’re about to delve into the layers of wordplay and clever construction that make this one stand out. Let’s unravel the genius behind ‘Go with poor wretches to increase pressure (4,3,5)‘ and discover why it’s such a brilliant piece of crossword clue crafting.
Available Answers:
TURNTHESCREW.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Wednesday, 17 September 2025