Another day, another brilliant crossword clue to dissect! The world of crossword puzzles consistently offers up delightful challenges, keeping our brains sharp and our vocabularies stretched. There’s nothing quite like that moment of revelation when a seemingly opaque phrase suddenly snaps into perfect focus, revealing its clever solution. Today’s spotlight falls on a particularly engaging seven-letter gem: “Leaves work and goes to bed (7).”
This isn’t just any crossword clue; it’s a beautifully crafted example of wordplay that makes you nod in appreciation once you’ve cracked it. At first glance, the two parts of the clue—”Leaves work” and “goes to bed”—might seem like straightforward definitions of an action. And in a way, they are. But the magic lies in how they converge to point to a single, specific word. This type of cryptic elegance is what keeps dedicated puzzle solvers coming back for more.
When tackling a crossword clue like this, the first instinct is often to consider each phrase independently. “Leaves work” immediately brings to mind the act of finishing one’s professional duties for the day, stepping away from the desk, or clocking out. It evokes a sense of departure or cessation of labor. Similarly, “goes to bed” points directly to the act of retiring for the night, preparing for sleep, or ending the active part of the day. The brilliance here is realizing that both distinct phrases describe the exact same event or state, from slightly different angles.
For seasoned crossword aficionados, a crossword clue structured this way often signals a double definition or a very clever use of synonyms. The challenge isn’t just finding a word that fits one part, but finding
the
word that perfectly encapsulates
both
ideas simultaneously. This requires a bit of mental flexibility and a willingness to explore the nuances of language. What common seven-letter word conveys both the act of concluding one’s professional obligations and the act of preparing for slumber?
Think about the routine of an average day. What happens at the end of the productive period, before you embark on the journey to dreamland? The word we’re seeking is a widely understood term for this transition. It’s a verb, an action, and it perfectly bridges the gap between the workday and the nighttime rest. It’s a word that suggests a cessation, a winding down, a completion of one phase before moving to the next.
This particular crossword clue is a fantastic exercise in precision and conciseness. There’s no extraneous word; every component contributes to guiding you towards that elusive seven-letter solution. It rewards those who can see beyond the most literal interpretation and grasp the broader concept linking the two seemingly separate actions. The “aha!” moment when you piece it together is incredibly satisfying, a testament to the power of a well-designed puzzle.
So, the next time you encounter a cryptic crossword clue that seems to offer two distinct descriptions, remember to search for that singular word that bridges them flawlessly. It’s a common technique in crossword puzzles, and mastering it significantly enhances your solving prowess. Keep flexing those mental muscles, and enjoy the thrill of deciphering every clever crossword clue that comes your way!
Available Answers:
RETIRES.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 28 November 2025