The daily crossword clue can often present a delightful mental workout, and some of the most satisfying triumphs come from cracking those seemingly opaque definitions. Today, we’re diving into a common but sometimes tricky one that might have you scratching your head: “House-letting contract (5)“.
This particular crossword clue, despite its straightforward appearance, carries a specific nuance. It asks for a five-letter word that encapsulates the formal agreement for renting out a dwelling. When you first encounter such a clue, your mind probably races through a gamut of possibilities related to housing, agreements, and the act of renting. The number in parentheses, (5), is your critical guide, immediately narrowing down the field of potential candidates. It’s the silent partner in solving every crossword clue, indicating the exact length of the word you seek.
Many common terms spring to mind when considering “house-letting contract.” Words like “rental,” “leasehold,” “tenancy,” or “agreement” might flash through your thoughts. However, the precise five-letter constraint forces a more focused selection. This is where the art of crossword solving truly comes into play – discerning the exact word that fits the definition and the letter count perfectly. It’s not just about knowing synonyms; it’s about knowing the
right
synonym for the given crossword clue.
Think about the context. What is the most common, fundamental term for a document that formalizes the letting of a house or property? It’s a legal arrangement, a binding understanding between parties. The language used in contracts is often very specific, and crossword setters love to tap into this precise vocabulary. This specific crossword clue tests your familiarity with everyday legal terminology that governs where and how we live. It’s a word steeped in the practicalities of property law and transactions.
For those who regularly tackle the daily crossword, you know the feeling. You’ve got a few letters in place from intersecting words, and you’re trying to fill in this gap. Perhaps you have an ‘E’ as the second letter, or an ‘S’ as the final one. Each letter acts as a beacon, guiding you closer to the correct response for this challenging crossword clue. It’s a wonderful interplay of definition and structure, making the solver’s journey both logical and intuitive.
Consider the core action: letting a house. This implies permission, temporary occupation, and a formal document outlining terms and conditions. What single five-letter word most succinctly captures this essence? It’s a word that’s universally understood in the context of real estate and property arrangements, forming the backbone of many residential agreements.
The beauty of a well-crafted crossword clue lies in its ability to be both clear and subtly elusive. “House-letting contract (5)” is a prime example. It’s not a cryptic clue designed to trick you with elaborate wordplay, but rather a straight definition that demands precision. The satisfaction of finally placing the correct word in the grid after a moment of contemplation is what keeps us coming back for more. It transforms a simple crossword clue into a personal victory, a small but significant triumph of wit.
So, as you ponder this particular crossword clue, take a moment to sift through the legal and property lexicon in your mind. The answer is concise, commonly used, and perfectly fits the bill for a house-letting agreement. It’s a word that signifies a formal commitment for temporary dwelling, often paid for. The solution, once it clicks, often feels remarkably obvious, making you wonder why it took even a moment to solve this engaging crossword clue. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
LEASE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Thursday, 1 January 2026