There are certain moments in a crossword puzzle that simply sing. Not just the straightforward “three-letter word for ‘cat'” kind of solve, but those intricate, multi-layered challenges that truly make your brain spark. Today, we’re diving into one of those delightful intricacies, a classic structure that elevates a simple crossword clue into a masterclass of wordplay and pattern recognition. It’s the kind of reveal that makes you pause, smile, and appreciate the constructor’s genius, transforming a mundane solve into a thrilling mental expedition.
We’re talking about the magnificent “revealer” clues, the ones that don’t just ask for a single word but point to a grander theme knitting together several other answers. The specific crossword clue we’re dissecting today, “Go on a break, or what the starts of 16-, 20-, 32-, 43-, and 57-Across can be called,” is a prime example of this elegant design. It’s not just a standalone crossword puzzle clue; it’s the key to unlocking an entire section of the grid, a meta-challenge embedded within the daily crossword clue.
Imagine the scene: you’ve been working through the grid, diligently filling in squares, perhaps hitting a few snags, and then you come across this peculiar crossword clue in the top position. It immediately tells you that something special is afoot. This isn’t your average “what’s another word for” kind of question. No, this challenging crossword clue is a meta-clue, instructing you to look
beyond
its own immediate answer and into the very fabric of the puzzle’s construction. It’s a clever bit of crossword help, guiding you without giving away too much.
The magic of such a crossword clue lies in its ability to transform seemingly disparate entries into a cohesive narrative. You’ll tackle 16-Across, then 20-Across, and so on, perhaps without realizing the common thread at first. You might solve each of those individual crossword puzzle clues successfully, feeling a sense of accomplishment with each correct entry. But then, as you turn your attention back to the overarching revealer, a light bulb clicks on. You start to notice a consistent pattern, a repeated element, a shared beginning across all those numbered answers. This is the moment when you truly begin to figure out a crossword clue of this special nature.
This is where the true detective work of solving a crossword clue comes into play. You’re not just finding words; you’re uncovering a hidden language, a secret code embedded within the grid. The starts of 16-, 20-, 32-, 43-, and 57-Across aren’t just arbitrary initial words; they are pieces of a larger puzzle, components of a phrase that directly relates to “Go on a break.” The brilliance lies in the constructor’s ability to weave this theme so seamlessly that it’s both hidden and, once discovered, utterly obvious, leading to a satisfying crossword answer.
For many crossword enthusiasts, deciphering a crossword clue like this is the pinnacle of the solving experience. It’s an intellectual exercise that demands both broad knowledge and keen observation. It’s not enough to simply know the answer to each individual crossword puzzle clue; you must also connect the dots, identify the commonality, and then deduce the overarching concept that binds them all. When you finally figure out a crossword clue of this caliber, the satisfaction is immense. It’s that “Aha!” moment, the sudden clarity that washes over you as the puzzle’s true cleverness reveals itself. This kind of challenging crossword clue provides immense joy.
This kind of crossword clue encourages a different mode of thinking. Instead of straightforward recall, it asks for synthesis. It’s a rewarding challenge that makes you look at every word, every phrase, every potential starting point in a new light. So, as you embark on this particular puzzle, keep your eyes peeled. Approach those numbered Across clues with an extra layer of scrutiny. There’s a beautiful connection waiting to be made, a thematic thread that promises a delightful payoff. Unraveling this kind of challenging crossword clue provides not just an answer, but a deeper appreciation for the art of crossword construction. It’s a journey of discovery that transforms a simple grid into an intricate tapestry of interconnected ideas. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
TAKEFIVE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Tuesday’s Daily By Matthew Stock & Mark Valdez / Ed. Patti Varol