The world of crosswords is a fascinating labyrinth, each grid a new adventure, each
crossword clue
a fresh puzzle. Some clues are straightforward definitions, others clever puns, but then there are those that offer an example, subtly guiding us to a broader category. “100-meter race, e.g.” falls squarely into this intriguing latter group, a classic instance of a
crossword clue
that demands a nuanced shift in perspective from the solver.
The “e.g.” – short for
exempli gratia
, Latin for “for example” – is a powerful and frequently used signal from the crossword setter. It tells us not to look for a direct synonym for “100-meter race” itself, nor for another specific race like “marathon” or “relay.” Instead, it urges us to ascend a level of abstraction, to find the overarching class or type that the “100-meter race” is just one instance of. This little abbreviation transforms a simple description into a categorical challenge, making for a truly satisfying
crossword clue
experience when the solution finally clicks. It’s a common technique designed to test not just vocabulary, but also logical classification.
So, what does “100-meter race” evoke? Instantly, images of speed, explosive power, and peak human athleticism spring to mind. It’s a fundamental event in sports, a test of pure acceleration and technique. It’s competitive, measured, and often televised, a cornerstone of major international sporting festivals. This particular
crossword clue
specifically grounds us in the realm of physical contests, particularly those involving running over a short, defined distance. It’s not just
any
race; it’s a very particular kind of athletic endeavor, part of a distinct set of sporting activities. Understanding the core characteristics of the example is paramount to deciphering this type of
crossword clue
.
With “100-meter race” as our anchor, and the “e.g.” directing our search for a category, what kind of conceptual buckets might it fit into? We’re looking for a term that encompasses not just the 100-meter dash, but also potentially 200-meter sprints, 400-meter events, and perhaps even hurdles or long jump. It’s about the
type
of competition, the
nature
of the event, rather than the specific details of a single instance. Is it about speed? About track? About individual performance? About a specific genre of sport? A good
crossword clue
like this forces us to consider the essence of the example provided and identify its fundamental classification within the world of sports. The challenge lies in pinpointing the most precise and commonly accepted grouping.
When faced with such a
crossword clue
, a seasoned solver knows to pivot from the specific to the general. What shared characteristics define the 100-meter race and its ilk? What single word captures that essence concisely and accurately? The answer will likely be a term that readily brings to mind other similar events within the same domain. It’s a brilliant way for a
crossword clue
to test both vocabulary and powers of classification, demanding that you look beyond the obvious. Considering the typical grid dimensions and common answer lengths for such clues can also subtly guide the thought process towards the most efficient and elegant solution.
These “e.g.” clues are often among the most rewarding to crack. The initial focus on a concrete example can be momentarily misleading, but once the power of “e.g.” is fully grasped, the path to the solution becomes clearer. It’s about stepping back, seeing the bigger picture, and slotting the given example into its rightful conceptual home. The elegance of the correct answer, when it finally clicks into place, is a testament to the setter’s craft and the solver’s deductive reasoning. This particular
crossword clue
is a prime example of that satisfying journey from specific instance to broad, definitive classification, a true delight for anyone who loves a good word puzzle.
Available Answers:
DASH.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Friday’s Daily By Joseph A. Gangi / Ed. Patti Varol