There are crossword clues, and then there are
crossword clues
. The ones that stop you in your tracks, not out of frustration, but out of sheer admiration for the setter’s wit and linguistic acrobatics. They sparkle with an almost poetic elegance, offering a deceptively simple surface reading that hides layers of brilliant wordplay. When you encounter such a gem, the world seems to pause, inviting you to engage in a delightful mental tussle.
Today, we’re diving into precisely that kind of exquisite brainteaser: “More remarkable, though less well done (5)“. Just reading it aloud, one can almost hear the gears turning, the multiple meanings of familiar words dancing on the edge of comprehension. This particular crossword clue is a masterclass in misdirection, a prime example of how a few carefully chosen words can lead the solver down a charmingly circuitous path before the grand reveal.
Consider the interplay of “remarkable” and “well done.” Individually, these terms carry a host of connotations. “Remarkable” points to something noteworthy, unusual, something that stands out from the ordinary. “Well done,” on the other hand, speaks to completion, to a task executed with skill, or perhaps, for those who love their culinary arts, to a specific degree of cooking. But when juxtaposed with “though,” a conjunction that implies contrast or concession, the entire landscape of the puzzle shifts. It begs the question: how can something be
more
remarkable yet
less
well done? The very structure of this cryptic crossword clue forces a re-evaluation of common idioms and accepted definitions.
This isn’t just about finding a five-letter word; it’s about appreciating the exquisite craftsmanship of the puzzle setter. It’s about recognizing the subtle art of the double definition, the clever use of homophones, or perhaps a hidden indicator that quietly guides you to the correct answer without ever shouting its presence. A truly great cryptic crossword clue doesn’t just ask for an answer; it invites you to unravel a miniature linguistic mystery, each word a potential thread in a finely woven tapestry of meaning.
The beauty of a crossword clue like this lies in its ability to challenge and delight in equal measure. It tests not just vocabulary, but also lateral thinking, an openness to linguistic ambiguity, and a willingness to play with language. For anyone who relishes the intellectual sport of deciphering puzzles, this is the kind of challenge that makes the entire hobby so addictive. It promises that satisfying click, that moment when the disparate elements suddenly coalesce into a perfectly formed solution, revealing the genius hidden within those five simple letters.
This type of elegant wordplay elevates the humble crossword clue into a form of art. It’s a testament to the power of language, demonstrating how words, when expertly arranged, can both conceal and reveal. Exploring such a clue is more than just solving; it’s an exercise in linguistic appreciation, a journey through the nuances of English. It reminds us why we keep coming back to the daily challenge, always on the hunt for that next brilliant crossword clue to untangle.
Available Answers:
RARER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 26 September 2025