Deck the Halls (and Fill in the Blanks): Tackling a Festive Crossword Conundrum
The air is getting crisper, the days are shorter, and suddenly everyone seems to be humming along to the same ten songs on repeat. Yes, the holiday season is officially upon us, and with it, the annual influx of festive-themed crossword clues. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one of those puzzles, specifically tackling a particularly ubiquitous phrase: “___ the season…”
This little gem pops up frequently, especially around late November and December. It’s a classic example of a fill-in-the-blank clue, relying on cultural knowledge and a touch of seasonal cheer. These clues often seem deceptively simple, but the key lies in identifying the specific source material the crossword setter is referencing. After all, “___ the season” could theoretically be followed by any number of words that fit both the grid and the festive mood.
Think about it: “Decorate the season,” “Celebrate the season,” even something quirky like “Survive the season” (if you’re feeling particularly Grinch-like) could technically work. The challenge, of course, is to pinpoint the
intended
answer, the one that aligns with the crossword’s overall theme, the surrounding clues, and the specific number of letters allocated in the grid.
One approach is to consider the common associations with the holiday period. What phrases are most frequently used in greetings, songs, or advertisements? What specific activities are most closely linked to the season? Brainstorming a list of potential words related to these areas can help narrow down the possibilities.
Another tactic is to look at the intersecting clues. Even if you’re completely stumped on “___ the season,” examining the words that share letters with it can provide invaluable clues. Perhaps one of the intersecting words relates to music, or a specific holiday tradition, or even a particular time period. Any of these hints could point you in the right direction.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of pattern recognition. The number of letters in the missing word is a crucial piece of information. Does it suggest a short, common word or a longer, more elaborate one? Consider the vowel-consonant structure of the existing letters. This can help you eliminate possibilities that simply don’t fit the pattern.
So, as you cozy up with your crossword puzzle this holiday season, remember to approach “___ the season…” with a blend of festive spirit and logical deduction. Analyze the clue from all angles, consider the context of the puzzle, and trust your instincts. The solution may be simpler than you think, and the satisfaction of cracking it will be all the sweeter amidst the holiday cheer.
Happy solving! And may your holiday season be filled with puzzles, presents, and perfectly placed letters.
Available Answers:
TIS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Universal Crossword – Redefined By Sharon Kassing